Meshes in hernia repair

The search for safe and effective means of herniorrhaphies has been ongoing for more than a century. Evidence strongly supports tension-free hernia repairs in most patients, which result in a 50% reduction in a ten-year cumulative rate of hernia recurrence compared with tissue repairs. Polypropylene mesh revolutionized the field approximately 50 years ago; however, limitations of traditional polypropylene mesh have fueled the research and development of other prosthetic and biologic mesh products. Newer polyester and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) products are designed to improve pliability and reduce adhesiogenic potential. Combination meshes capitalize on the ideal properties of biomaterials by strategically positioning particular mesh surfaces to selectively impede or promote tissue ingrowth. The most recent improvement in mesh products is the introduction of "lightweight" meshes. In response to mounting evidence that the traditional formulations of polypropylene meshes are over-engineered, lightweight meshes were designed with less polypropylene per surface area. Future research may prove that most meshes used currently are "mechanical overkill," which may lead to a widespread use of lightweight meshes to provide a durable repair, minimize chronic mesh-related discomfort, and improve the overall quality of life of hernia patients.