Alla Zemlyak, MD, Paul Colavita, MD, Victor B Tsirline, MD, Brant T Heniford. Carolinas Medical Center
Introduction
Biologic meshes have been used for repair of complex abdominal wall defects. However, there is little evidence for using them in the repair of inguinal hernias. This study describes a single center experience with biologic prostheses in the inguinal region.
Methods
A retrospective chart review of the patients who underwent inguinal hernia repair with biologic mesh between 2009-2011 was performed. Patients’ demographics, details of surgical procedures and post-operative outcomes have been recorded.
Results
There were 7 patients whose inguinal hernias were repaired with biologic mesh between 2009 and 2011. Their average age was 63 (46-88); 2 were females. Average BMI was 28.4 (20.5-38.2). Four patients had concomitant, resectional GI procedures at the time of repair, 2 had strangulated hernias and 1 had biologic mesh placed in infected field. Mesh implants included Alloderm, FlexHD, Permacol and Strattice. Three hernias were repaired with Lichtenstein technique, two were laparoscopic and two were repaired with a combined approach. Average follow up was 4 months. One patient developed a small seroma that was treated expectantly. One patient recurred and developed chronic groin pain and had his mesh removed. No infectious complications were noted.
Conclusions
This small series demonstrates that biologic mesh is a reasonable option for repair of inguinal hernias in the presence of contamination. No mesh related infections occurred, but one patient required a reoperation with short-term follow up. Given the complicated nature of the repairs a definitive conclusion can not be drawn, but biologic grafts do not appear to offer an advantage over synthetic mesh in terms of chronic groin discomfort.
Session Number: Poster – Poster Presentations
Program Number: P311
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