The field of hernia repair, in general, has evolved over the last 25 years. The changes that have followed the introduction of this technique have continued and have even increased in the last few years. There is a need to inform the practicing general surgeon about these advances. This text will seek to present the most up to date and important considerations to date.

The book will open with a brief history and evolution of the technology surrounding the repair of incisional and ventral hernias laparoscopically and include the introduction of the robotic technology. Prosthetic biomaterials are an integral part of the successful repair of hernias and a comprehensive presentation of these products will be presented. Preoperative preparation of the patient has now been recognized as a method to improve outcomes in these patients and will be addressed.