Meta-analysis and systematic review of laparoscopic versus open mesh repair for elective incisional hernia

Context The utility of laparoscopic repair in the treatment of incisional hernia repair is still contentious. Objectives The aim was to conduct a meta-analysis of RCTs investigating the surgical and postsurgical outcomes of elective incisional hernia by open versus laparoscopic method. Data sources A search of PubMed, Medline, Embase, Science Citation Index, Current Contents, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials published between January 1993 and September 2013 was performed using medical subject headings (MESH) "hernia," "incisional," "abdominal," "randomized/randomised controlled trial," "abdominal wall hernia," "laparoscopic repair," "open repair", "human" and "English". Study eligibility criteria, participants and interventions Prospective RCTs comparing surgical treatment of only incisional hernia (and not primary ventral hernias) using open and laparoscopic methods were selected. Study…