[Preliminary evaluation of composite materials for the repair of incisional hernias]

Recent investigations have shown that direct exposure of the intestines to currently available absorbable and nonabsorbable biomaterials can result in their adhesion to the bowel. This can then lead to bowel obstruction or migration of the mesh into the intestinal lumen and formation of intestinal fistula. It has been suggested by some authors that an absorbable covering of the peritoneal side of a nonabsorbable mesh would prevent adhesions and biomaterial related intestinal fistula formation. However, the effectiveness of such a combination has not been substantiated by recent experimental and clinical studies. This preliminary report examines the feasibility of combining porous and non-porous biomaterials for the creation of a composite that would incorporate with the abdominal wall without adhering to the intestines.