A novel technique for gynecologic oncology surgery in the presence of abdominal wall mesh prosthesis

Incisional herniae are relatively frequent complications of abdominal incisions. Hernia repair techniques have taken advantage of the strength provided by prosthetic mesh grafts. Subsequent surgery in these patients must incorporate a strategy for managing the mesh material. The goals are adequate exposure for surgery and a closure that restores wound strength. The current technique describes lateral dissection of the mesh prosthesis allowing for retraction of the mesh and adherent bowel, providing excellent surgical exposure. The mesh is reattached to the abdominal wall during closure. This technique allowed for staging procedures in a case of endometrial cancer and a case of ovarian cancer.