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Updated: May 28, 2025

Transvaginal Mesh Insertion in the Ovine Model
Published on: July 27, 2017
Feasibility and safety of biologic OviTex mesh in ventral mesh rectopexy: a prospective pilot study
M A Boom1,2, E M van der Schans3,4,5, N A T Wijffels6
1Department of Surgery, Meander Medical Centre, Amersfoort, The Netherlands. m.a.boom@umcg.nl.
Background:
Minimal-invasive ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) is a widely accepted treatment for patients suffering from rectal prolapse. The type of mesh used in VMR remains a subject of debate. Currently, the most applied implant is a polypropylene mesh. The aim of the present pilot study was to determine the ease of use, feasibility, and safety of OviTex PGA mesh, a biologic mesh, in VMR.
Methods:
Consecutive patients who underwent VMR for internal or external rectal prolapse were included in a prospective non-randomised pilot study in two centers. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation (90 days and 6 months) with a clinical examination and questionnaire regarding pelvic floor symptoms was performed. The primary objectives were to monitor the perioperative technical end result and the postoperative complication rate.
Results:
Sixteen patients underwent VMR with an OviTex PGA implant. All operations were completed successfully and without intraoperative complications. The mean ODS and FISI score was significantly decreased after 6-months follow-up. No graft-related complications (GRC) occurred. Two patients developed a recurrent prolapse within 6 months.
Conclusion:
Robotic correction of rectal prolapse using an OviTex mesh is a safe, minimally invasive, technically feasible treatment. However, further research is warranted to evaluate the potential added value of OviTex compared to polypropylene mesh on a larger scale. Long-term follow-up is essential to assess the durability of the procedure and monitor the occurrence of any new symptoms.

