Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
07:43
Porcine As a Training Module for Head and Neck Microvascular Reconstruction
Published on: September 29, 2018
Porcine dermal collagen (Permacol) for abdominal wall reconstruction
David M Parker1, Peter J Armstrong, James D Frizzi
1Eisenhower Army Medical Center, Fort Gordon, Georgia, USA.
Current Surgery
|July 18, 2006
Summary
Permacol offers a safe alternative for abdominal wall defect repair, even in contaminated cases. This study found Permacol to be effective in complex reconstructions with low infection rates.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Biomaterials Science
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Abdominal wall reconstruction presents challenges, especially in contaminated fields.
- Prosthetic mesh use in infected surgical sites can lead to high complication rates and mesh explantation.
- Novel biomaterials are needed for complex abdominal wall defect repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Permacol for abdominal wall defect repair.
- To assess the outcomes of Permacol in complex and contaminated surgical cases.
- To determine if Permacol is a viable alternative to traditional prosthetic meshes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records at Eisenhower Army Medical Center.
- Analysis of 9 patients undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction with Permacol.
- Evaluation of outcomes including recurrence, infection, and complications at a median follow-up of 18.2 months.
Main Results:
- Permacol was used for various complex defects including reoperative hernias and tumor resections.
- One recurrent hernia occurred after Permacol removal; one case of Permacol exposure was managed with local wound care.
- No infectious complications were observed in 56% of patients with contaminated wounds (wound classification II, III, or IV).
Conclusions:
- Permacol demonstrates safety and efficacy in complex abdominal wall reconstructions.
- The biomaterial integrates via tissue ingrowth and neovascularization.
- Permacol is a suitable alternative to prosthetic mesh in challenging abdominal wall defect repairs, even in contaminated settings.
