A case of perineal hernia occurring after an abdominoperineal resection repaired with a composix mesh^®

Abstract

A 72-year-old man underwent an abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the 19th postoperative day. After discharge from hospital, he developed a perineal bulge and severe discomfort ; a perineal hernia was diagnosed. A herniorrhaphy with Composix mesh^® was performed via a perineal approach 2 months postoperatively. There has been no recurrence of the hernia during 1 year and 1 month of follow-up. Perineal hernia is an uncommon complication of abdominoperineal resection and pelvic exenteration. A perineal approach with the use of a Composix mesh^® is less invasive than a transabdominal approach. Furthermore, a reconstruction of the pelvic floor can be performed easily.