Endoscopic component separation

Ventral hernia repair has evolved over the years to provide patients with equally effective outcomes while minimizing the peri-operative risks. The concept of open component separation has been around for nearly two decades. It was not until recently that endoscopic component separation gained popularity with surgeons when performing tension free abdominal wall hernia repairs. The endoscopic release of the external oblique aponeurosis allows sparing of perforator vessels, which in turn allows for better wound healing. The endoscopic component separation and laparoscopic repair has also been noted to decrease overall morbidity, by way of decreased length of hospital stay and decreased post-operative pain. These advancements in the component separation technique through a minimally invasive approach have all been achieved while producing similar hernia recurrence rates. Overall, endoscopic component separation is a successful alternative to open component separation in the repair of abdominal wall hernias.