Diastasis recti repair with onlay mesh.

[INTRODUCTION] Diastasis recti represents a midline contour abnormality of the anterior abdominal wall that is secondary to attenuation of the linea alba. Severe diastasis recti is defined as attenuation of the linea alba as well as the linea semilunaris. Treatment options are variable and include conditioning exercises and surgical repair with or without mesh. This manuscript will review the indications and technique of onlay mesh for correction of severe diastasis recti.

[METHODS] Abdominoplasty with diastasis repair has been performed in 63 women from January 2010 to January 2020. Of these, 4 had repair for severe diastasis that included plication and onlay mesh. The mesh was polypropylene in 3 patients and silk in 1 patient. Indications for onlay mesh included severe diastasis as a means of further reinforcing the strength of the anterior rectus sheath.

[RESULTS] Of the 4 patients, all tolerated the operation well without morbidity. Natural contour was established in all. There were no infections, seromas, delayed healing or mesh removals. All drains were removed by 7 days.

[CONCLUSION] The use of an onlay mesh has demonstrated success and should be considered in select patients for the surgical management of severe diastasis.