New mesh shape and improved implantation procedure to simplify and standardize open ventral hernia repair

Amato G et al. - The described arm system of the implant allowed for a much smaller incision and eliminated the complicated maneuvers associated with suturing the mesh. The fixation arms seemed to have ensured the mesh stayed orientated in all patients. A very wide lateral mesh placement was accomplished, assuring sufficient defect overlap when shrinkage occurs.

Methods

• A unique geometrically shaped mesh consisting of a large central body and radiating arms was used to repair ventral or incisional hernia.
• The mesh was intended not to be point-fixated.
• The friction of the straps passing through the tissues was hypothesized to be adequate to maintain the mesh firmly fastened in the abdominal wall, ensuring a wide coverage far from the hernia border.
• The newly designed mesh was placed in the preperitoneal sublay in 22 patients with ventral or incisional hernia.
• All straps were passed laterally through the transverse and oblique muscles.
• In all patients, a defect overlap of at least 8–12 cm was achieved.

Results

• In a midterm follow-up of 18–24 (mean 22) months, three seromas and one infection occurred, which were successfully managed without mesh removal.
• No hematoma, chronic pain, or recurrence has been reported to date.

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