A Detailed History of Retromuscular Repairs for Ventral Hernias: A Story of Surgical Innovation.

Abstract

We performed a historical review of events concerning retromuscular hernia repairs over the last two centuries. This may shed light on surgical innovators and their novel techniques that have evolved into current practices. Literature reviews of notable surgeons in the subspecialty were reviewed. Historical context was obtained by personal communication with contemporary surgeons who witnessed changes in established techniques firsthand. Even though retromuscular repairs are the central theme of this exercise, it is important to note several adjacent events which steered surgical progress. The status of hernia surgery today is the result of the work of several pioneers separated by time and distance. It may be important to understand the circumstances that have propelled past surgical breakthroughs to stimulate future progress.