Drain tube use in incisional hernia repair: a national survey

Abstract

Purpose: There is debate regarding the use of drain tubes in incisional hernia repair. This has become topical in Australia, with a court judge suggesting that drain tubes are mandatory. There continues to be a lack of evidence to support generalised decision-making regarding the use of drain tubes. Methods: The general surgeon membership of General Surgeons Australia (GSA) were surveyed regarding incisional hernia repair, their use of drains, and the decision-making behind their use. Results: A total of 196 surgeons’ survey responses were analysed. Most surgeons perform less than 20 incisional hernia repairs per year (78%), prefer an open approach (78%), and preferably perform a pre-periton..