The use of Mersilene mesh in rapir of abdominal wall hernias: a clinical and experimental study

E. J. Cerise, R. W. Busuttil, C. C. Craighead, W. W. Ogden

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Scopus citations

Abstract

Use of synthetic materials in hernioplasty has been a controversial issue. In order to determine the influence of Mersilene mesh on the strength of healing abdominal wounds and its effectiveness in repair of hernia, experimental and clinical studies were undertaken. Experimental study included 175 male rats divided into three groups subjected to either: an incision made only through the skin and closed with 3-0 silk sutures; a 2.5 cm midline incision through the musculature and peritoneum closed with 2-0 Mersilene suture; or the same procedure as group 2 with the addition of a Mersilene mesh onlay graft. Bursting strength of abdominal wounds was determined in all groups at intervals. Wounds of the group treated with the mesh exhibited significantly greater (P<0.01) bursting strengths. Clinical trial consisted of 100 consecutive adult patients in which an onlay graft of Mersilene mesh was used in the hernioplasty. Mesh was used as an adjunct in patients with: large ventral hernias; direct hernias resulting from severely attenuated transversalis fascia; indirect hernias associated with a large internal ring and a weak posterior inguinal wall; or combined direct and indirect hernias. All were followed for a minimum of one year to determine incidence of complication and rate of recurrence. This study suggests that: Mersilene mesh increases the strength of healing abdominal wounds in rats; and repair of large hernias with Mersilene mesh results in an acceptable morbidity and a lowered rate of recurrence.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)728-734
Number of pages7
JournalAnnals of surgery
Volume181
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 1975

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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