ABSTRACT
Background: Newly developed techniques for minimally invasive abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) for complex ventral hernia are continuously evolving. In order to achieve hernia defect closure, the aponeurotic edges of the hernia defect need to be approximated. Currently, surgeons have no way to objectively measure and quantify the traction required to approximate these edges. This study presents minimally invasive tensiometry (MINT), a novel technology for measuring fascial tension, as well as initial experiences and results using it. Methods: The MINT device was designed using rapid prototyping principles. It was designed as an add-on tool for any existing laparoscopic instrument, enabling objective assessment of abdominal wall tension by the use of a manually operated linear spring. Pre-clinical measurements of medialization at 10 and 20 N of tension during AWR were performed on fresh-frozen Post-Mortem Human Specimens (PMHS). Results: Three specimens were included, and a total number of 36 measurements of medialization at three different levels of the abdominal wall were performed under structured and similar circumstances. Median total medialization with 20 Newton (N) of applied tension was 25 mm (mm) cranially, 37.5 mm at the umbilicus and 27.5 mm at the caudal level. The highest rate of medialization was seen at the umbilical level (2.25 mm/N). Conclusion: MINT is a novel non-invasive technique, which allows surgeons to intraoperatively measure fascial tension when performing AWR. The MINT device is easy to use and reproduce. The next step is to start performing clinical measurements applying MINT during AWR.
