Watch this detailed video on IPOM Umbilical Hernia Repair using VIPRO II Mesh. Learn the step-by-step surgical technique, tips, and best practices for successful hernia repair. This educational video is ideal for surgeons, medical students, and healthcare professionals interested in minimally invasive hernia surgery.

Laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair has largely replaced open method. The purpose of this video is to demonstrate the laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair using two port with intraabdominal VIPRO II mesh fixation with transabdominal absorbable suture technique and demonstrate that it is feasible, efficient, and safe. Methods. Two-port technique was used and the umbilical defect was closed using transabdominal VIPRO II mesh was placed intra-bdominally and fixed to abdominal wall using transabdominal suture. Results. Laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair with intraabdominal mesh fixation using absorbable sutures offers an efficient, safe, and effective repair for umbilical hernia.

Umbilical hernia is a common abdominal wall defect in adults, where intra‑abdominal contents protrude through a weakened area around the belly button. Traditional open repairs have evolved over decades toward laparoscopic techniques that reduce pain, scars, and recovery times. One such advanced method is Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) repair, now enhanced by use of biocompatible meshes like VIPRO II that promise durable outcomes and fewer complications. 

What Is IPOM Umbilical Hernia Repair?

IPOM (Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh) is a laparoscopic hernia repair technique where the mesh is placed inside the abdominal (peritoneal) cavity against the inner surface of the abdominal wall. Unlike open mesh repairs, IPOM is performed through small incisions using a camera and laparoscopic instruments. 

In the VIPRO II IPOM approach, the mesh is positioned intra‑abdominally and fixed to the abdominal wall to reinforce the weakened area around the umbilicus. VIPRO II mesh is typically fixed using absorbable transabdominal sutures, which pass from the inside of the cavity through the abdominal wall, securing the mesh in place. 

Surgical Technique Overview

Although individual surgeons may vary in method, here’s a general summary of how IPOM with VIPRO II mesh is performed:

Laparoscopic Access: A small incision is made (often above the belly button or at Palmer’s point) to introduce a laparoscope, and the abdomen is insufflated with CO₂ for working space. #

Defect Reduction: Adhesions are released, and hernia contents (fat or bowel) are carefully reduced back into the abdominal cavity.

Mesh Preparation and Placement: A VIPRO II mesh — a composite, partially absorbable mesh designed for intraperitoneal use — is selected and introduced through a port.

Mesh Fixation: The mesh is aligned over the hernia defect and secured to the abdominal wall. This can be done with transabdominal absorbable sutures, sometimes assisted by laparoscopic tackers, ensuring the mesh lies flat and covers the defect adequately. 

Closure: Instruments are withdrawn, and port sites are closed.

This technique is typically performed using two laparoscopic ports and is considered both feasible and safe when conducted by experienced laparoscopic surgeons. 
Laparoscopic Video

About VIPRO II Mesh

VIPRO II mesh is a composite surgical mesh used for laparoscopic hernia repairs. It is partially absorbable — meaning part of the mesh material gradually disappears over time while a permanent reinforcement remains. This design aims to:

Provide strong support to the abdominal wall without leaving excessive foreign material.

Reduce patient sensation of a “foreign body” in the long term, compared with fully permanent meshes. 

Encourage tissue ingrowth and integration with surrounding tissue.

While much of the evidence for VIPRO II relates to inguinal hernia repairs, principles carry over to ventral/umbilical applications where composite, partially absorbable meshes are preferred to balance strength and biocompatibility. 


Benefits of IPOM with VIPRO II Mesh

Compared with traditional open repair and simple suture closure techniques, IPOM with VIPRO II mesh offers several advantages:

Minimally Invasive Technique

Smaller incisions and less tissue trauma.

Reduced postoperative pain and quicker recovery.

Minimal scarring compared to open methods. 
Laparoscopic Video

Lower Recurrence Risk

Mesh repairs, in general, have significantly lower recurrence rates than suture‑only repairs, particularly in defects larger than 1–2 cm. 

Enhanced Mesh Integration

The unique structure of VIPRO II promotes good tissue ingrowth and flexibility, enabling durable abdominal wall reinforcement. 

Reduced Foreign‑Body Sensation

Partially absorbable meshes like VIPRO II are associated with lower long‑term foreign‑body sensation compared with some permanent meshes. 


Considerations and Limitations

Despite its advantages, IPOM repair with VIPRO II mesh has specific considerations:

Surgeon Experience: Successful outcomes depend on proper surgical skill and familiarity with laparoscopic hernia repairs. 

Fixation Technique: Mesh fixation is critical; inadequate fixation can increase the risk of mesh migration or recurrence. 

Mesh‑related Risks: While composite meshes reduce adhesion risk, any intraperitoneal mesh carries some risk of adhesions or chronic discomfort, though such complications are uncommon. 
Laparoscopic Video

Clinical Outcomes

Studies of IPOM repairs broadly (not specific to VIPRO II) show favorable safety profiles, low recurrence rates, and good patient satisfaction when performed by trained surgeons. For instance, laparoscopic IPOM repairs for ventral hernias, including umbilical hernias, have demonstrated low long-term recurrence and complication rates. 

Conclusion

IPOM umbilical hernia repair using VIPRO II mesh represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive hernia surgery, combining reliable mesh reinforcement with the benefits of laparoscopic technique. It offers a strong, durable repair with fewer complications and faster recovery compared with traditional open approaches. As with all hernia repairs, surgeon experience and individualized patient assessment remain essential to optimizing outcomes.