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Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Application of a New Mesh Fixation Method in Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair
Published on: December 23, 2022
Mesh infection in the era of laparoscopy
Victor Moon1, Ghazali A Chaudry, Charles Choy
1Department of Surgery, Lutheran Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, USA.
Background:
The incidence of mesh infection during open hernia repair has been reported to be as high as 3%. With the introduction of laparoscopy, the rate of infection is still a matter of debate.
Methods:
All 1182 laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs performed at our institution from September 1991 to June 2002 were retrospectively reviewed to identify both mesh and wound infections.
Results:
There were two mesh infections (0.17%) during that period, and one wound infection.
Conclusion:
The incidence of mesh infection in laparoscopic repair is considerably lower than in the open procedure. The two main reasons for this are the introduction of mesh through trocars to avoid skin contact, and the mesh is placed far from the trocar incisions, again avoiding contamination. The rate of wound infection is not related to that of mesh infection, and depends mainly on aseptic prepping techniques prior to surgery.
Insights
Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair significantly reduces mesh infection rates compared to open surgery. This study found a 0.17% mesh infection rate, highlighting the benefits of minimally invasive techniques for hernia repair.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Infectious Disease in Surgery
Background:
- Open hernia repair historically reports mesh infection rates up to 3%.
- The infection rate following laparoscopic hernia repair remains a subject of ongoing discussion.
- Evaluating surgical site infections is crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A retrospective review of 1182 laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs was conducted.
- Data was collected over an 11-year period (September 1991 to June 2002).
- The study specifically identified mesh and wound infections.
Findings:
- The incidence of mesh infection was found to be 0.17% (2 cases).
- One case of wound infection was reported during the study period.
- Laparoscopic repair demonstrates a considerably lower mesh infection rate than open procedures.
Implications:
- Laparoscopic techniques, by minimizing skin contact and contamination, appear to reduce mesh infection risk.
- Mesh placement away from trocar sites is a key factor in preventing infection.
- Wound infection rates are independent of mesh infection and rely on aseptic techniques.