Absorbable Meshes in Inguinal Hernia Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Application of a meshed artificial dermal scaffold and negative-pressure wound therapy in the treatment of full-thickness skin defects: a prospective in vivo study

Artificial dermal scaffolds (ADSs) have great value in repairing deep skin defects. However, problems such as unsatisfactory angiogenesis and local dropsy or empyema often occur, resulting in delayed or even failed wound healing. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is an effective therapy to promote wound healing or shorten wound bed preparation time. Studies on whether it can improve the effects of ADSs have never been interrupted, and no consensus has been reached. In this study, an improved ADS was prepared by mesh technology, physicochemical experiments were conducted, cell adhesion and proliferation were assessed with the meshed ADS, and in vivo experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of meshed ADS or ADS combined with NPWT in repairing full-thickness skin defects. The results showed that the meshed ADS showed through-layer channels arranged in parallel longitudinal and transverse intersections. The cell experiments confirmed the good cytocompatibility. The in vivo experiments showed that there were no differences in the take rate or contraction of grafted skin among all experiment groups. The meshed ADS exhibited good histocompatibility, and there were no differences in tissue inflammation, dermal angiogenesis, or degradation among all groups. In addition, necrosis, dropsy, or empyema of the dermal scaffold were found in all experiment groups except for the meshed ADS + NPWT group, which showed better wound repair results, including fewer scaffold-related complications and satisfactory skin graft survival and wound contraction. In conclusion, this novel meshed ADS, which has a regular through-layer mesh structure and possesses stable physicochemical properties and good biocompatibility, combined with NPWT can ensure adequate subdermal drainage and reduce the risk of scaffold-related complications, thereby improving the quality and efficiency of wound repair, promoting a broader application of biomaterials, and helping physicians and readers implement more effective wound management.

The Effects of Tissue Healing Factors in Wound Repair Involving Absorbable Meshes: A Narrative Review

Wound healing is a complex and meticulously orchestrated process involving multiple phases and cellular interactions. This narrative review explores the intricate mechanisms behind wound healing, emphasizing the significance of cellular processes and molecular factors. The phases of wound healing are discussed, focusing on the roles of immune cells, growth factors, and extracellular matrix components. Cellular shape alterations driven by cytoskeletal modulation and the influence of the 'Formin' protein family are highlighted for their impact on wound healing processes. This review delves into the use of absorbable meshes in wound repair, discussing their categories and applications in different surgical scenarios. Interleukins (IL-2 and IL-6), CD31, CD34, platelet rich plasma (PRP), and adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) are discussed in their respective roles in wound healing. The interactions between these factors and their potential synergies with absorbable meshes are explored, shedding light on how these combinations might enhance the healing process. Recent advances and challenges in the field are also presented, including insights into mesh integration, biocompatibility, infection prevention, and postoperative complications. This review underscores the importance of patient-specific factors and surgical techniques in optimizing mesh placement and healing outcomes. As wound healing remains a dynamic field, this narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding and potential avenues for future research and clinical applications.

Evaluation of Long-term Performance of the GORE SYNECOR Intraperitoneal Biomaterial in the Treatment of Inguinal Hernias

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to analyze device safety and clinical outcomes of inguinal hernia repair with the GORE SYNECOR Intraperitoneal Biomaterial device, a hybrid composite mesh.

METHODS

This retrospective case review analyzed device/procedure endpoints beyond 1 year in patients treated for inguinal hernia repair with the device. Three objectives were evaluated: procedural endpoint-incidence through 30 days of surgical site infection, surgical site occurrence (SSO), ileus, readmission, reoperation, and death; device endpoint-serious device incidence of mesh erosion, infection, excision/removal, exposure, migration, shrinkage, device-related bowel obstruction and fistula, and hernia recurrence through 12 months; and patient-reported outcomes of the bulge, physical symptoms, and pain.

RESULTS

A total of 157 patients (mean age: 67±13 y) with 201 inguinal hernias (mean size: 5.1±5 cm 2 ) were included. Laparoscopic approach and bridging repair were performed in 99.4% of patients. All device location was preperitoneal. No procedure-related adverse events within 30 days were reported. No surgical site infection or SSO events or device-related hernia recurrence occurred through 12 months. Procedure-related serious adverse events occurred in 6 patients; 5 recurrent inguinal hernias (at 1 and 2 y) and 1 scrotal hematoma (at 6 mo). Through 24 months, no SSO events requiring procedural intervention occurred. Through 50 months, 6 (2.98%) patients had confirmed hernia recurrence and 4 (1.99%) patients had hernia reoperation. The patient-reported outcome for pain was reported by 7.9% (10/126) of patients who completed the questionnaire.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, inguinal hernia repair with the hybrid composite mesh was successful in most patients and the rate of recurrence was low, further supporting the long-term safety and device performance.

Cytomorphological Effects of Lightweight and Heavyweight Polypropylene Mesh on the Ilioinguinal Nerve: An Experimental Study

Objective This study aimed to investigate the cytomorphological effects of heavyweight and lightweight mesh on the ilioinguinal nerve in an experimental animal model. Methods Sixteen New Zealand male rabbits were included in the study. The left inguinal regions of the first six animals were assigned as controls and the right inguinal regions were assigned as the sham group. The left inguinal regions of the remaining 10 animals were assigned as the lightweight mesh group and the right inguinal regions were assigned as the heavyweight mesh group. No intervention was performed in the control group. In the sham group, only ilioinguinal nerve exploration was performed. In mesh groups, ilioinguinal nerve exploration was performed and the mesh was implanted on the ilioinguinal nerve. After three months, ilioinguinal nerve specimens were excised from both sides for cytomorphological examination. Results Myelin sheath thickening, separation of the myelin layers, and myelin vacuolization were more pronounced in the heavyweight mesh group compared to the lightweight mesh group. The G-ratio was moderately increased in the heavyweight mesh group when compared to other groups. The ratio of fibers with ≤4 µm diameter was higher in the lightweight mesh group compared to other groups, and the ratio of fibers with ≥9 µm diameter was higher in the heavyweight mesh group than in the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusion Both of the meshes induce cytomorphological alterations on the adjacent nerve tissues caused by foreign body reaction and compression. Ilioinguinal nerve degeneration was more pronounced in the heavyweight mesh than in the lightweight mesh. Histological alterations on the ilioinguinal nerves caused by different meshes may be related to chronic pain after hernia surgery. We believe our study will serve as a guide for future studies on the topic.

A Strangulated Meckel's Diverticulum in an Inguinal Hernia: A Case Report and Literature Review

Background

Meckel's diverticulum is an embryologic remnant of the vitelline duct, occurring in approximately 2% of the adult population. A hernia containing a Meckel's diverticulum is called a Littré's hernia and is rarely reported in the medical literature. Clinically, a Littré's hernia is indistinguishable from a hernia containing small bowel and is often discovered incidentally during a repair.

Case Presentation

Herein, we report a rare case of strangulated Littré's hernia in a patient's right groin. The sac contained a long segment of small bowel in addition to a large Meckel's diverticulum. The bowel was irreducible through the groin incision, and a lower midline laparotomy was made. Necrotic bowel including the Meckel's diverticulum was resected. Given the presence of necrotic bowel and potential for infection, the hernia was repaired with a Bassini herniorrhaphy, reinforced with absorbable mesh. The patient recovered uneventfully.

Conclusion

Littré's hernia is a rare clinical entity. Treatment is similar to any bowel-containing hernia. Repair of the hernia defect with permanent mesh should be weighed against the risk of implant infection.

Fascinating history of groin hernias: Comprehensive recognition of anatomy, classic considerations for herniorrhaphy, and current controversies in hernioplasty

Groin hernias include indirect inguinal, direct inguinal, femoral, obturator, and supravesical hernias. Here, we summarize historical turning points, anatomical recognition and surgical repairs. Groin hernias have a fascinating history in the fields of anatomy and surgery. The concept of tension-free repair is generally accepted among clinicians. Surgical repair with mesh is categorized as hernioplasty, while classic repair without mesh is considered herniorrhaphy. Although various surgical approaches have been developed, the surgical technique should be carefully chosen for each patient. Regarding as interesting history, crucial anatomy and important surgeries in the field of groin hernia, we here summarized them in detail, respectively. Points of debate are also reviewed; important points are shown using illustrations and schemas. We hope this systematic review is surgical guide for general surgeons including residents. Both a skillful technique and anatomical knowledge are indispensable for successful hernia surgery in the groin.

Ten-year follow up of cosmetic outcome, overall survival, and disease-free survival in endoscope-assisted partial mastectomy with filling of dead space using absorbable mesh for stage ≤ IIA breast cancer: comparison with conventional conservative method

BACKGROUND

Data on long-term cosmetic outcome, overall survival, and disease-free survival of endoscope-assisted partial mastectomy (EAPM) for breast cancer are scarce. Thus, we examined these outcomes after a 10-year follow-up period, and compared with conventional conservative method (CCM).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data on 257 patients with stage ≤ IIA breast cancer who underwent CCM (n = 125) or EAPM (n = 132) were analyzed. Cosmetic outcome at 2, 5, and 10 years was evaluated by 5 criteria (breast retraction assessment, nipple deviation, atrophy, skin change, scar). For overall mortality, breast cancer-specific mortality, and recurrence, the risk by operation method was tested by Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

EAPM performed significantly better than CCM in terms of cosmetic outcomes for location B at 2, 5, and 10 year-follow ups. As for cosmetic outcomes by individual criteria, EAPM had significantly higher proportions of satisfactory results for scar across all follow-up periods, and atrophy at 2-year and 10-year follow-up. There were no significant differences in terms of overall mortality, breast cancer-specific mortality, and recurrence between EAPM and CCM. The rates of patients who experienced local recurrence were similar between CCM and EAPM.

CONCLUSION

EAPM is better than CCM in terms of long-term cosmetic outcome, especially for location B. As a surgical treatment for breast cancer, EAPM is comparable to CCM in terms of mortality and recurrence.

Evaluation of a Novel Absorbable Mesh in a Porcine Model of Abdominal Wall Repair

Bioabsorbable meshes have seen increasing clinical use to reinforce soft tissue, and exist on a spectrum of strength loss versus absorption: several retain their strength for months, but remain in situ for years. Others lose strength fully by 6 weeks. An intermediate profile, with some strength for 3 -4 months, but consistent absorption in less than a year, may be an optimal balance of near-term support and long-term safety. In this large animal study, we evaluate such a mesh (DuraSorb, SIA), assessing its utility in a porcine model of abdominal wall repair.

METHODS

Two full-thickness defects were created in the abdominal walls of nine Yucatan swine via midline approach and repaired preperitoneally with either DuraSorb or long-lasting control mesh (TIGR, Novus Scientific). At 30 days, 3 months, and 1 year, the implantations were assessed by clinical pathology, post-necropsy histopathology, and burst strength testing.

RESULTS

No device-associated complications were found in vivo, at necropsy, or histologically. DuraSorb was well-integrated and vascularized by 30 days. DuraSorb demonstrated minimal/mild inflammation and fibroplasia, and lower inflammatory scores when compared with TIGR at all time points (P < 0.05). Burst strength of the repair sites was higher than adjacent abdominal wall at all time points (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DuraSorb provided durable long-term support, minimal inflammation, and consistent absorption in this porcine model of abdominal wall repair, as compared to a long-term control. Clinical data is needed, but these results suggest that this mesh provides adequate structural support while potentially reducing long-term device reactions.

Ventral hernia repair with synthetic mesh in a contaminated field: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The use of mesh in ventral hernia repair becomes especially challenging when associated with a contaminated field. Permanent synthetic mesh use in this setting is currently debated and this discussion is yet to be resolved clinically or in the literature. We aim to systematically assess postoperative outcomes of non-absorbable synthetic mesh (NASM) used in ventral hernia repair in the setting of contamination.

METHODS

A literature search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cinahl, and Cochrane Library identified all articles from 2000-2020 that examined the use of NASM for ventral hernia repair in a contaminated field. Postoperative outcomes were assessed by means of pooled analysis and meta-analysis. Qualitative analysis was completed for all included studies using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

RESULTS

Of 630 distinct publications and 104 requiring full review, this study included 17 articles published between 2007 and 2020. Meta-analysis demonstrated absorbable mesh was associated with more HR (OR 1.89, 1.15-3.12, p = 0.008), SSO (OR 1.43, 0.96-2.11, p = 0.087), SSI (OR 2.84, 1.85-4.35, p < 0.001), and unplanned reoperation (OR 1.99, 1.19-3.32, p = 0.009) compared to NASM.

CONCLUSION

The use of NASM for ventral hernia repair in a contaminated field may be a safe alternative to absorbable mesh, as evidenced by lower rates of postoperative complications. This review counters the current clinical paradigm, and additional prospective randomized controlled trials are warranted.

Lichtenstein inguinal hernia repairs with porcine small intestine submucosa: a 5- year follow-up. a prospective randomized controlled study

Porcine small intestine submucosa (SIS) biologic patch has been used in inguinal hernia repair. However, there are little data available to assess the long-term effect after repair. This study aimed to explore the long-term effect of SIS patch in open inguinal hernia repair. Sevent-six patients with unilateral inguinal hernia were treated with Lichtenstein tension-free hernia repair using SIS patch (Beijing Datsing Bio-Tech Co., Ltd.) and Surgisis patch (COOK, USA) in Tianjin Union Medical Center and China-Japan Friendship Hospital. In the trial, the long-term efficacy of the treatment group and the control group were compared. A total of 66 patients in both groups received long-term follow-up (> 5 years) after surgery, with a follow-up rate of 86.8%. During the follow-up period, there was one case of recurrence, one case of chronic pain in the control group. There was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) in terms of recurrence, chronic pain, foreign body sensation and infection between the two groups of patients. After long-term observations, it has been found that the porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) biological patch is safe and effective for inguinal hernia Lichtenstein repair, and has a low recurrence rate and complication rate.

Renal Allograft Compartment Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with ESRD. One rare complication after transplantation is the development of renal allograft compartment syndrome (RACS). We present a case of 1 patient who developed RACS due to compression of the transplant vein, which was then treated by salvaging the kidney transplant using urgent decompression surgery with mesh fascial closure. We postulate that this technique is safe and should be the treatment of choice for patients with RACS.

Porcine Small Intestinal Submucosa Mesh to Treat Inguinal Hernia in Young Adults Using Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Retrospective Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

The authors evaluated the effects and clinical value of small intestinal submucosa (SIS) mesh to treat inguinal hernia in young adults by the laparoscopic method.

METHODS

The clinical data of 357 cases with inguinal hernia using SIS mesh in our hospital were analyzed retrospectively from June 2014 to June 2018. All cases were divided into 2 groups according to the surgical method. Operation time, hospital stay, cost, postoperative complications, and complications during follow-up were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 357 patients, 202 (56.6%) underwent Lichtenstein repair and 155 (43.4%) underwent transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repair. Operation time and hospital costs of the Lichtenstein group were significantly lower compared with the TAPP group (P<0.05). The incidence of seroma in the Lichtenstein group was lower than that in the TAPP group at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively with significant differences (P<0.05). Perioperative pain scores in the Lichtenstein group were higher than the TAPP group (P<0.05). No statistical difference was observed for hospital stay between 2 groups (P>0.05). In the Lichtenstein group, 1 case recurred during the follow-up period (0.5%). No intestinal obstruction or intestinal fistula occurred in any patient during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

The effect of SIS mesh was positive whether the patient underwent a Lichtenstein or TAPP method. Seroma was more common in the TAPP method that may cause lower postoperative pain. Therefore, we recommend individualized treatment.

Results at 3-year follow-up of totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernia surgery with long-term resorbable mesh

INTRODUCTION

Synthetic non-resorbable mesh is almost standard in hernia surgery. However, several studies have showed negative effects of permanent implants such as chronic inflammation and complications involving different organs bordering the mesh. Such complications can raise the risk of chronic post-operative pain (CPP). Recently promising results regarding CPP have been published in patients with Lateral Inguinal Hernia (LIH) using a slowly resorbable mesh in Lichtenstein technique. For this reason the aim of the present study was to find the effect of a slowly resorbable implant on the long-term rate of hernia recurrence and chronic post-operative pain in patients with LIH repaired with TEP procedure.

METHODS

Prospective pilot study of TEP repair using TIGR^® Matrix Surgical Mesh in 35 primary LIH. At 3-year follow-up the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Inguinal Pain Questionnaire were employed to assess pain. Recurrence was determined by ultrasound and clinical examination.

RESULTS

All patients completed the pain questionnaires but one patient did not attend the planned clinical examination for the 3-year follow-up. No patients had CPP, as defined in the World Guidelines for Groin Hernia Management. Almost all patients had lower VAS score in any activity 3 years following surgery in comparison to the preoperative period. Three patients (8.8%) suffered symptomatic recurrence during the 3-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

TEP repair in patients with LIH using a synthetic long-term resorbable mesh was found to be encouraging respecting chronic post-operative pain at 3-year follow-up but at the cost of an increased risk of recurrence.

Polypropylene mesh and systemic side effects in inguinal hernia repair: current evidence

INTRODUCTION

Increasing awareness and regulatory body attention is directed towards the insertion of synthetic material for a variety of surgical procedures. This review aims to assess current evidence regarding systemic and auto-immune effects of polypropylene mesh insertion in hernia repair.

METHODS

The electronic literature on systemic and auto-immune effects associated with mesh insertion was examined.

RESULTS

Foreign body reaction following mesh implantation initiates an acute inflammatory cellular response. Involved markers such as IL-1, IL-6, IL-10 and fibrinogen are increased in circulation in the presence of mesh but return to normal at 7 days post operatively. Oxidative degradation of implanted mesh is likely, but no evidence exists to support systemic absorption or resulting disease effects. Variable cytokine production in healthy hosts leading to unpredictable or overwhelming response to implanted biomaterial warrants further investigation. Clinical studies show no associated long-term systemic effects with mesh.

CONCLUSION

To date, there remains no evidence to link polypropylene mesh and systemic or auto-immune symptoms. Based on current evidence, the use of polypropylene mesh is supported.

What is the evidence for the use of biologic or biosynthetic meshes in abdominal wall reconstruction?

INTRODUCTION

Although many surgeons have adopted the use of biologic and biosynthetic meshes in complex abdominal wall hernia repair, others have questioned the use of these products. Criticism is addressed in several review articles on the poor standard of studies reporting on the use of biologic meshes for different abdominal wall repairs. The aim of this consensus review is to conduct an evidence-based analysis of the efficacy of biologic and biosynthetic meshes in predefined clinical situations.

METHODS

A European working group, "BioMesh Study Group", composed of invited surgeons with a special interest in surgical meshes, formulated key questions, and forwarded them for processing in subgroups. In January 2016, a workshop was held in Berlin where the findings were presented, discussed, and voted on for consensus. Findings were set out in writing by the subgroups followed by consensus being reached. For the review, 114 studies and background analyses were used.

RESULTS

The cumulative data regarding biologic mesh under contaminated conditions do not support the claim that it is better than synthetic mesh. Biologic mesh use should be avoided when bridging is needed. In inguinal hernia repair biologic and biosynthetic meshes do not have a clear advantage over the synthetic meshes. For prevention of incisional or parastomal hernias, there is no evidence to support the use of biologic/biosynthetic meshes. In complex abdominal wall hernia repairs (incarcerated hernia, parastomal hernia, infected mesh, open abdomen, enterocutaneous fistula, and component separation technique), biologic and biosynthetic meshes do not provide a superior alternative to synthetic meshes.

CONCLUSION

The routine use of biologic and biosynthetic meshes cannot be recommended.

TEP With Long-Term Resorbable Mesh in Patients With Indirect Inguinal Hernia

Background and Objectives:

The role of long-term degradable implants in reducing the risk of chronic postoperative pain after inguinal hernia repair is still unclear. A pilot study using a synthetic long-term resorbable mesh in Lichtenstein repair showed good results regarding pain and discomfort in patients with indirect inguinal hernia (IH) without recurrences, but higher recurrence rate in patients with direct inguinal hernia (DH). The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of pain and early recurrence in patients with LIH surgically treated with the TEP technique using a long-term degradable mesh. This is the first human study to use long-term degradable mesh with the TEP approach.

Methods:

This study was prospective, including 35 primary IHs surgically treated with TEP repair using TIGR Mesh (Novus Scientific Pte, Ltd, Singapore). At the 1-year follow-up recurrence was assessed by clinical examination and the incidence of pain or discomfort was assessed before and after surgery by Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Inguinal Pain Questionnaire (IPQ).

Results:

After 12 months, no patients had chronic pain. Only 1 (2.8%) patient reported pain using the VAS (score = 2), and 4 patients reported pain that could easily be ignored. All 4 patients reported less pain 1 year after the operation using both IPQ and VAS, compared with the preoperative assessment. One patient (2.8%) developed a recurrence 20 months after the primary operation.

Conclusion:

TEP repair using a synthetic long-term resorbable mesh was found to be safe and promising regarding pain and discomfort at 1-year follow-up in patients with IH. Longer follow-up is necessary to establish the risk of recurrence.

Etiology of Inguinal Hernias: A Comprehensive Review

Background

The etiology of inguinal hernias remains uncertain even though the lifetime risk of developing an inguinal hernia is 27% for men and 3% for women. The aim was to summarize the evidence on hernia etiology, with focus on differences between lateral and medial hernias.

Results

Lateral and medial hernias seem to have common as well as different etiologies. A patent processus vaginalis and increased cumulative mechanical exposure are risk factors for lateral hernias. Patients with medial hernias seem to have a more profoundly altered connective tissue architecture and homeostasis compared with patients with lateral hernias. However, connective tissue alteration may play a role in development of both subtypes. Inguinal hernias have a hereditary component with a complex inheritance pattern, and inguinal hernia susceptible genes have been identified that also are involved in connective tissue homeostasis.

Conclusion

The etiology of lateral and medial hernias are at least partly different, but the final explanations are still lacking on certain areas. Further investigations of inguinal hernia genes may explain the altered connective tissue observed in patients with inguinal hernias. The precise mechanisms why processus vaginalis fails to obliterate in certain patients should also be clarified. Not all patients with a patent processus vaginalis develop a lateral hernia, but increased intraabdominal pressure appears to be a contributing factor.