2025 British Hernia Society BJS Lecture: What is the role of robotics in hernia surgery?

A Diaphragmatic hernia following an oesophagectomy is a recognised but uncommon post-operative complication. Surgical repair can be challenging due to the distorted anatomy and prior reconstruction. This video demonstrates a safe and reproducible laparoscopic approach to the repair, incorporating a colonopexy to prevent recurrence.

This patient presented with a symptomatic left diaphragmatic hernia 3 months post-oesophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction. Laparoscopic reduction of the herniated colon and greater omentum was performed. The diaphragmatic defect was fixed with two non-absorbable sutures before placing a biological absorbable mesh over the repaired area to reinforce this closure. A colonopexy was then created to further minimise the recurrence risk.

The accompanying video provides practical guidance on technique and decision-making for surgeons managing similar cases.

Jonathan Cook, statistician for the BJS, kicks off our 5-part series on surgical research and publishing - first presented at our BJS Academy Workshop in April 2024.

Robin Blackstone presents her BJS Lecture "Towards sustainability in the operating room and the future of single use instruments in bariatric surgery" from the 5th World Congress of the International Bariatric Club (IBC) held at Oxford University from 17-19 September 2024.