Introduction Incisional hernia is a long-term complication
of laparotomy. Its exact frequency varies according to
different authors, but is always around 10–15%. There are
patients who present with systemic associated diseases
[chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity,
severe cardiopathies, immunodeficiencies, etc.] that favour
or increase the risk of appearance of an incisional hernia.
The aim of the present study was to assess whether the
prophylactic placement of a polypropylene mesh in
patients at risk can reduce or avoid the appearance of an
incisional hernia.