Three weight groups had the highest odds ratios (OR) for complications: underweight patients (less than 18.5 kg/m2, OR 1.46, P = .283); morbidly obese (40-50 kg/m2, OR 1.28, P = .014); and super obese (greater than or equal to 50 kg/m2, OR 1.76, P = less than .0001). However, Dr. Swendiman noted, “Overweight patients had a lower rate of overall complications compared to normal-weight individuals.”
These findings were consistent with a prior analysis the group did that found patients with BMI greater than 30 kg/m2 was associated with increased risk of complications after open VHR, Dr. Swendiman noted (Surgery. 2017;162[6]:1320-9).
“Future studies should be considered to evaluate the role of weight reduction prior to hernia repair as a method to reduce patient risk,” Dr. Swendiman said. Laparoscopic repair may be preferable to open VHR in obese patients, depending on the clinical context, he said.
Dr. Swendiman and coauthors reported having no financial disclosures.
SOURCE: Academic Surgical Congress. Abstract 50.02.