Etiology of defect: Congenital, previous surgery, trauma, resection.

Duration of defect, management thus far.

Nutritional status.

History of smoking.

Steroids or immunosuppressive medications.

Body mass index (BMI): weight (kg)/[height (m)]².

Abdominal wall defect description

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  Location

  
  
  
  
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    Midline or lateral.

    
    
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    Upper, middle, or lower abdomen.

  
  
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  Tissue defect

  
  
  
  
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    Skin and subcutaneous tissue.

    
    
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    Myofascial.

    
    
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    Full thickness.

  
  
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  Size of defect.

  
  
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  Condition of surrounding tissues.

Preexisting incisions.

Pertinent comorbid conditions (diabetes, autoimmune diseases, coronary artery disease, etc).

Computed tomography of the abdomen with contrast may be helpful to delineate the extent of the defect, the related anatomy, and other issues (e.g., bowel adhesions, abscesses).

Pulmonary function testing should be performed if there is preexisting respiratory compromise or suspicion for loss of domain from a large hernia.