Network meta-analysis of robotic ventral and incisional hernia repair techniques: intraperitoneal, preperitoneal, retromuscular, and sublay approaches

To compare the efficacy and safety of robotic ventral and incisional hernia repair techniques using network meta-analysis.

Robotic ventral hernia repair continues to evolve, but the comparative performance of individual robotic approaches remains uncertain.

We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis of 14 studies, including 2 randomized trials and 12 retrospective cohorts, involving 9,348 adults undergoing ventral or incisional hernia repair. Techniques were classified by mesh plane and operative access. Frequently reported approaches were analyzed as separate nodes, whereas less commonly described but conceptually similar techniques were grouped into pooled preperitoneal and retromuscular nodes. Treatment effects were estimated using a R (netmeta); heterogeneity, transitivity were assessed, and certainty was rated with CINeMA.