[The rational use of prosthesis in laparocele]

The Authors report their cases of incisional hernias observed from 1990 to 1995 involving 142 patients treated either in emergency or under normal conditions. A guideline in the choice of prosthetic materials of current use, considering the relative chemo-physical characteristics, the biocompatibility and the costs is outlined. Although not entering into the merit of the surgical technique some general criteria that should guide the surgeon facing the incisional hernial pathology are ruled out.