The outcomes of plication darn technique in calves with uncomplicated umbilical hernia in 15 cases (2004 - 2007): A preliminary study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the operation outcomes of Plication Dam Technique (PDT) in uncomplicated umbilical hernia (UUH) in calves and presentation of it as a new herniorrhaphy technique. A prospective clinical study was designed. Fifteen calves with UUH were used for the study. UUHs were repaired with PDT. The internal hernial sac was enfolded so that it could form plicas in the umbilical defect and hernial defect was closed by stitching it to the sides of hernial hole with Halstead sutures. All calves were examined during postoperative period in specific times (15th and 30th days) clinically and the long term clinical results (3rd, 5th months, 1st, 2nd and 3rd years) were evaluated in accordance with the data obtained from the owners. In two cases where the technique was applied, the findings belonging to postoperative term were also evaluated ultrasonographically (2nd, 3rd and 5th months) and the results of clinical and ultrasonographic examination were compared. No recurrence was observed in any case and there were not any significant complications. It was found out that the thickness of the tissue, which was repaired with PDT, in the umbilical area, was almost as thick as abdominal wall after 3rd month and it had the same thickness level at the end of 5th month. The outcomes of the study have showed that PDT is an easy and effective method for the repair of UUHs. PDT can be a primary treatment option in the repair of UUHs in selected cases.