Long-term results after incisional hernia repair.

After repair of incisional hernia, 154 patients were followed up for periods ranging from 4 to 10 years. An actuarial analysis showed a cumulated recurrence rate of 31%, with most recurrences appearing in the first three years. The recurrence rate after repair of recurrent incisional hernia was 44%. A cautious attitude to surgical treatment of incisional hernia is suggested if the patient has only mild discomfort.