IMPACT OF COVID-19 LOCKDOWN ON EMERGENCY ABDOMINAL WALL HERNIA SURGERIES: A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

Authors : Haluk Karakullukçu, Hanife Şeyda Ülgür, Mert Gedik, Fatih Başak

Pages : 189-194

Doi:10.54270/atljm.2025.95

View : 68 | Download : 269

Publication Date : 2025-10-29

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :AIM: The aim of our study is to evaluate the impact of nationwide lockdowns imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of incarcerated inguinal, femoral, and incisional hernias in Türkiye. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent emergency surgery for strangulated abdominal wall hernias between 01/04/2020 and 01/04/2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on the timing of surgery. Surgeries performed during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions were categorized as the lockdown period, while those outside of this date range were considered the free period. RESULTS: The study included a total of 135 cases, and the results revealed significant differences between the free and lockdown periods in terms of hernia types and postoperative outcomes. During the lockdown period, the emergency admission rate for incisional hernias increased from 27.2% to 43.8%, while the rate for inguinal hernias decreased from 42.5% to 22.9%. Intestinal resections increased from 6.9% in the free period to 18.8% in the lockdown period (p<0.05). The postoperative ICU admission rate increased from 12.6% to 27.1% (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Our study found a proportional increase in incisional hernias during the closure period in hernia patients requiring emergency surgery, while a decrease in inguinal hernias was observed. An increase in the need for intensive care unit admissions was observed during this period and a significant increase in intestinal resections was observed. It emphasizes the need for ongoing research in this field to improve patient outcomes and inform clinical decision-making.
Keywords : COVID-19, Fıtık, İnkarserasyon, Strangülasyon

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