Subxiphoid incisional hernias post median sternotomy: A Literature
review
Jeremy Chan1, James O’Hanlon2,
Joshua McKenna3, Shwe Oo4
1: MB BCh BAO, PgDip (ClinEd), Bristol Medical School, University of
Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
2: MSci, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea,
United Kingdom
3. BSc (Hons), Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University,
Swansea, United Kingdom
4. MRCS, PgCert (ClinEd), Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Bristol
Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
Corresponding author
Dr Jeremy Chan
MB BCh BAO, PgDip (ClinEd)
Bristol Medical School
University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
Email:jeremychan@doctors.org.uk
Keywords: Subxiphoid hernia, Incisional Hernia, Literature review
Word Count: 1821
Funding: (None)
Disclosure: Nil
Acknowledgement: Nil
Presentation: Nil
Abstract
Background: Subxiphoid incisional hernias are one of the complications
following a median sternotomy, a surgical procedure to provide access to
the mediastinum. Incidence has been reported between 1-4%, although the
true incidence is not well known due to its asymptomatic nature.
Method: A comprehensive search was performed on multiple sites. Keywords
included “incisional hernia OR Subxiphoid hernia” AND “Median
sternotomy OR Cardiac Surgery OR Coronary artery bypass graft OR
Transplant OR Valve replacement”. Articles up to 1stof August 2020 were included in this study.
Results: 8 articles were included in the study, with a total number of
132 patient identified. The incidence ranged from 0.81% to 3.44%.
There was a mixture of repair method and follow up period reported.
Recurrence post-repair ranged from 10% to 43%.
Conclusion: Subxiphoid incisional hernias remain\souts challenging to
manage. We have discussed the incidence, risk factors, preventions, and
management of subxiphoid incisional hernias including both the open and
laparoscopic technique.