Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
Transvaginal Mesh Insertion in the Ovine Model
Published on: July 27, 2017
Open mesh versus non-mesh repair of groin hernia: meta-analysis of randomised trials based on individual patient data
1Health Services Research Unit, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK. a.grant@abdn.ac.uk
Background:
The EU Hernia Trialists Collaboration was established to provide reliable evaluation of newer methods of groin hernia repair. It involved 70 investigators in 20 countries.
Materials And Methods:
Twenty eligible trials (5016 participants) of open mesh vs. non-mesh groin hernia repair were identified. Meta-analysis was performed using raw individual patient data where possible.
Results:
Fewer hernia recurrences were reported after mesh repair. There were no clear differences between mesh and non-mesh groups in complications. Overall, those in the mesh groups had a shorter hospital stay, quicker return to usual activities and less frequent persisting pain, but individual trial results varied.
Conclusions:
The review provides strong evidence that open mesh repair is associated with a reduction in the risk of recurrence of between 50% and 75%. There is also some evidence of quicker recovery and of lower rates of persisting pain following open mesh repair.
