Usefulness of a novel, slim long syringe-like device for applying surgical mesh through a 5-mm trocar

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Hernia Repair Devices

Background:

• Transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair is a common laparoscopic procedure.
• Current methods for surgical mesh insertion can be cumbersome and increase contamination risk.
• There is a need for improved devices to facilitate efficient mesh placement in TAPP procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel, cost-effective device for introducing surgical mesh through a 5-mm trocar during TAPP hernia repair.
• To assess the device's ease of use, efficiency, and impact on mesh placement accuracy and infection risk.

Main Methods:

• A polypropylene sheath and inner rod device, resembling a long syringe, was designed for mesh delivery.
• Folded surgical mesh was loaded into the device using a grasper prior to surgery.
• The device was inserted through a 5-mm trocar, and the mesh was deployed using the inner rod, extruding along the inguinal curve.

Main Results:

• The device facilitated smooth and controlled extrusion of folded mesh.
• Mesh placement was accurate along the inguinal curve, reinforcing the repair area without contamination.
• The device's design allows for easy mesh positioning and fixation by the surgeon.

Conclusions:

• The developed device offers a simple, comfortable, and economical method for surgical mesh application in TAPP hernia repair.
• This innovation may enhance surgical workflow and potentially reduce the risk of surgical site infections.
• The low manufacturing cost makes this device a potentially valuable addition to laparoscopic surgical tools.