TRACK(S): GEN, HUM, PED

Moderator: Mike K. Liang, MD, FACS, Houston, TX
Co-Moderator: Kamal M.F. Itani, MD, FACS, West Roxbury, MA

Umbilical hernias are among the most common referrals to a general surgery practice and among the most common operations performed in general surgery. Failed repairs, infections, and recurrences are common and catastrophic. Controversies continue to exist regarding indications for repair of an umbilical hernia and the type of repair to perform. This panel will discuss the indications for surgery in the adult patient in general with special consideration for the obese patient and the cirrhotic patient. Best evidence regarding mesh placement and technique, the type of mesh, and the role of laparoscopic surgery will be reviewed.

Presentations and Speakers

Introduction
Mike K. Liang, MD, FACS, Houston, TX

All Umbilical Hernias Should Be Repaired
Vivian M. Sanchez, MD, FACS, West Roxbury, MA

Not All Umbilical Hernias Should Be Repaired 
Michele M. Loor, MD, FACS, Houston, TX

Umbilical Hernias Should Be Repaired Prior to Pregnancy
Arielle J. Perez, MD, Chapel Hill, NC

Umbilical Hernias Should Be Repaired following Pregnancy
Gina L. Adrales, MD, MPH, FACS, Baltimore, MD

Small Umbilical Hernias Should Be Repaired with Sutures 
Ruth Kaufman, MD, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Mesh
David M. Krpata, MD, Cleveland, OH

Early Elective Umbilical Hernia Repair in Cirrhotics 
Khashayar Vaziri, MD, FACS, Washington, DC

Nonoperative Management of Umbilical Hernias in Cirrhotics
Caroline E. Reinke, MD, FACS, Charlotte, NC

How I Do It
Kamal M.F. Itani, MD, FACS, West Roxbury, MA