HERNIA MESH
DR. SHIRIN TOWFIGH
Beverly Hills Hernia Center
There is a lot of press surrounding mesh. What is it? Why do we use it? Is it safe?
We know more about mesh, the different types and their indications than most hernia surgeons. This is because we are very uniquely in tune with the needs of our patient. We only want the best. Also, we are at the forefront of technology–companies come to us to seek our input on their mesh product. So, we always have the most advanced technology available to our patients.
Let’s define what mesh is: It is a physical barrier that we use to bridge or cover or support a hernia. Some form of mesh product has been used since early 1900’s. It has evolved a lot since then, and it continues to evolve. That is what is so exciting about the hernia field!
Mesh products may be synthetic, biologic (non-synthetic), or a combination (hybrid). They may be permanent or absorbable. They may be microporous or macroporous. They may come in sheets or braided. They have different densities and weights.
Each mesh product has its own profile and each patient may benefit from a different aspect of a product. We don’t believe in one mesh fits all. In fact, we promote non-mesh repairs when appropriate.
SYNTHETIC MESH
This is the most common mesh type. It is mass-produced and easy to access. Most are made of polypropylene. Other materials include ePTFE, polyester, PVDF, or a combination thereof. Almost all are permanent, though new products are now available that are synthetic absorbables.
In general, permanent synthetic mesh is considered the standard product for hernia repair. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, braids, sheets, porosities, densities, and weights.
Almost all synthetic mesh causes some sort of inflammation reaction. This triggers the body to start growing into it. The more inflammation, the stronger the mesh:tissue bond. The tendency in newer products is to move away from causing too much inflammation, as this may cause more pain after surgery. Newer products are lower in their inflammatory potential. That said, they may also therefore stick less to the surrounding tissue and possibly also cause to have a higher recurrence rate. Studies are not yet conclusive.
Dr. Towfigh debates use of Biologic Mesh for hernia repair