Approaching the Complex Abdominal Wall Hernia: General Priciples of Component Separation Techniques

Hernias comprise a growing problem in surgical science. The most recent classification scheme for hernias emphasises on the size of defect as well as on whether it is an incisional hernia. The latter group includes complex hernias, namely hernias that can not be managed with simple surgical techniques. This can be accomplished with retromuscular repairs or the more complex anterior and posterior component separation techniques. The proposed chapter will focus on the main anatomical features and operative technique regarding the implementation of anterior and posterior component separation techniques for repairing complex abdomnial wall defects. It will serve as a guide ton the non-specialist hernia surgeon, who will benefit from a theoretcial introduction to th above-mentioned techniques.