A novel technique for the repair of lumbar hernias after iliac crest bone harvest.
BACKGROUND
Lumbar hernia is a clinical entity that has been increasingly more common since the advent of iliac bone harvest for bone grafting procedures. These can be very technically difficult to repair and have a high recurrence rate.


METHODS
Using a corkscrew anchor suture device, we have developed a novel and simple way to repair these hernias with no recurrence. Here we present our experience with the corkscrew suture anchor device.


RESULTS
This technique has been performed in 2 patients at our institution, and in both cases, the hernia was successfully repaired. Our 1-year follow-up on this technique demonstrates intact repairs with no sign of recurrence.


CONCLUSIONS
The placement of corkscrew suture anchors along the iliac crest remnant is a simple technique requiring minimal bony exposure. The anchors facilitate the long-term fixation of mesh despite the lack of fascia in this area. We conclude that this is a simple and effective approach for repair of these challenging hernias.
Patten
Lane C
LC
Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Surgical Services VA 112, 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Awad
Samir S
SS
Berger
David H
DH
Fagan
Shawn P
SP
D016025:Bone Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects; D006555:Hernia, Ventral / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007085:Ilium / Q000637:transplantation; D008161:Lumbosacral Region; D013536:Suture Techniques