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Updated: May 17, 2026

Application of a New Mesh Fixation Method in Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair
Published on: December 23, 2022
Ventral hernia mesh tack causes liver hemorrhage
G Baltazar1, K Coakley, A Badiwala
1Department of Surgery, Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
Introduction:
The laparoscopic approach is an increasingly popular option for ventral hernia repair. In the wake of this new technology, unexpected complications have been reported.
Case Presentation:
We present the case of a patient who developed a liver laceration and hemorrhage after a mesh tacking device partially dislodged subsequent to ventral hernia repair. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy, liver hemostasis and removal of the offending tack.
Discussion:
Our patient partially dislodged a mesh tacking device likely after violent coughing during a bout of pneumonia. The exposed blade caused a liver laceration and hemorrhage. Few other unexpected complications of the use of mesh tacking devices have been noted in the literature. Tackless hernia repair has also been described.
Conclusion:
Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with tacks may have unexpected complications of which the surgeon should be aware and advise patients. Our patient developed a liver laceration and symptomatic hemorrhage after partially dislodging a hernia mesh tack. Further research into tackless hernia repair may be beneficial. A low long-term recurrence rate would demonstrate if tackless hernia repair is a viable option.
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