Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (AWR) 2021 - Internet Enduring Material

These are pre-recorded sessions from the virtual conference held in June 2021.

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital’s 12th Annual Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (AWR) Conference is a comprehensive three-day symposium that provides an in-depth understanding of the complexities of AWR. The purpose of this highly interactive meeting is to offer an evidence-based discussion on all aspects of AWR through didactic lectures with video education and case presentations to address the growing rate of hernia repairs and updates in technology and procedures. Currently, there are approximately 350,000 ventral hernia repairs performed annually in the United States and the patient population continues to be increasingly complex with significant co-morbidities. Thus, there is a significant complication rate including surgical site morbidity, readmission, and recurrence. The course is comprised of internationally renowned faculty that are a diverse group of experts chosen from the disciplines of general and plastic surgery, based upon their ongoing contributions to the field of abdominal wall reconstruction. The individual sessions will focus on patient selection and optimization, selection of surgical approach and reinforcement material, technical aspects of open and minimally invasive surgery, and management of complications. Attendees will be given much of the knowledge required to have a successful AWR practice.

1. Identify why preoperative preparation is necessary for optimizing patient outcomes.
2. Identify the indications for biologic, synthetic, bioabsorbable mesh.
3. Utilize patient optimization to reduce the incidence of surgical site occurrences.
4. Utilize advanced abdominal wall reconstruction techniques to improve patient outcomes.
5. Utilize advanced laparoscopic techniques for optimal patient outcomes.
6. Recognize the value of plastic surgery techniques for advanced abdominal wall reconstruction.
7. Manage entero-cutaneous fistulas in the setting of a hernia.
8. Implement appropriate treatment options for infected abdominal wall mesh.
9. Recognize the optimal management of skin and soft tissue during hernia repair.
10. Implement enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) after hernia repair.
11. Recognize the value of Botulinum Toxin A (BTA) in large hernia defects.
12. Evaluate and manage the common complications after component separation procedure.
13. Implement surgical approach for unique patient populations (oncology, transplant, child bearing age).
14. Identify the roles and responsibilities of members of the healthcare team involved in the collaborative care of patients with hernias.
15. Integrate a team-based approach in the care of patients with hernias.

In support of improving patient care, MedStar Health is jointly accredited by the   Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Credit Designation

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 14 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credits for learning and change.

Physicians: MedStar Health designates this live activity for a maximum of 14 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 

Nurses: This activity is approved for 14 ANCC contact hours. Nurses should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.