Localised fungal infection in a prosthetic mesh treated conservatively

Mehwash Nadeem1, Hasnain Zafar, Muhammad Shahrukh Effendi

  • 1Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan. drmehwash7@gmail.com

BMJ Case Reports
|June 21, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Fungal infection of prolene mesh after hernioplasty can be treated with amphotericin B irrigation and dressing. This approach successfully managed mesh infection, avoiding mesh removal and ensuring a full recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Surgical complications
  • Mycology in medicine

Background:

  • Mesh hernioplasty is a common surgical procedure.
  • Mesh infection is a significant complication, potentially requiring mesh removal.
  • Fungal infections of surgical mesh are rare but challenging.

Observation:

  • A 28-year-old male developed a fungal infection of prolene mesh five days after hernioplasty.
  • The wound was managed with delayed primary closure and daily dressings.
  • The patient had no prior comorbidities.

Findings:

  • Successful treatment of fungal mesh infection with amphotericin B irrigation and daily wound dressing.
  • Avoidance of mesh excision, a common complication management strategy.
  • Uneventful recovery with well-granulating wound and no signs of infection at follow-up.

Implications:

  • Amphotericin B irrigation and dressing is a viable conservative treatment for fungal mesh infections.
  • Preserving the mesh may lead to better patient outcomes and avoid further surgical procedures.
  • Highlights the importance of vigilant wound monitoring and tailored treatment for surgical site infections.