The Prosthetic Materials in Hernia Repair

Even though the number and variety of materials used in hernia operations have increased considerably, the ideal mesh is yet to be produced. The aim of this study is to review the current information on available meshes. Literature on the presently used grafts and the means of their usage were reviewed through Medline-PubMed. Large pores of lightweight grafts were shown to decrease the risk of infection and shrinkage. There is still no proven superiority in terms of the materials that are aimed for intra-abdominal use and have one side covered with adhesion preventers. The results prove that hernia surgeries using mesh (graft) provide a better outcome compared with conventional repair methods. Fiber type, tensile strength, and pore width have been indicated as the most important factors in mesh choice as well as determinants of biocompatibility. It is understood that the required tensile strength is less than expected, and lightweight meshes are superior in providing flexibility and comfort. In inguinal hernia repair, lightweight meshes suitable for the hernia type and lightweight or biomeshes that are absorbable in the presence of an infection are considered to be the better choice. Composite meshes that have one side covered in adhesion-preventive barriers are asserted to be the proper fit for the intraabdominal procedures. (JAREM 2015; 5: 1-5)