Background
Early elective repair of umbilical hernias in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites is safe. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, safety, complications and technical aspects of sublay mesh repair of umbilical hernia in cirrhotic patients with ascites.

Material and Methods
70 patients with non complicated umbilical hernia, liver cirrhosis and ascites were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent open sublay mesh repair. Demographic data, preoperative variables, postoperative course, and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed.

Results
The mean operative time was 67.45 minutes and the average hospital stay was 3.8 days. 2 patients had wound infection, 3 patients developed seroma and 1 patient had an ascitic fistula. Recurrence occurred in one patient (1.4%).

Conclusion
Elective sublay umbilical hernia mesh repair is a safe approach and feasible technique in selected non complicated cirrhotic patients with ascites.