Abdominal wall compliance after Marlex® mesh implantation for incisional hernia repair

Summary In view of the poor results of suturing techniques, incisional hernias are often best repaired with biomaterials. Their use brings the recurrence rate to below 10%, but patients sometimes complain of discomfort and restricted abdominal mobility. We report our experience with 41 patients after implantation of a Marlex®-mesh in a preperitoneal, retromuscular position (mean follow-up period 16.7 months). The effect of implanted meshes on abdominal wall mobility was measured noninvasively with the aid of three dimensional stereography and compared with a non-operated healthy control group (n = 21). The commonest early postoperative complication was seroma in 32% of cases, usually relieved by aspiration. Infection and hematoma were less frequent at 4.9% and 12.2% respectively. Three patients developed a recurrent hernia. During follow-up 7.3% experienced pain during heavy activities, 29.3% during daily activities and 4.9% at rest. Three dimensional stereography showed a highly significant (p < 0.001) decrease in abdominal wall mobility following mesh implantation, compared to a non-operated control group. Improved composition of the mesh material involving a smaller proportion of polypropylene and greater elasticity, should be considered for the future, in order to reduce patient discomfort.The study was supported by BIOMAT (Interdisciplinary Centre of Clinical Investigation, RWTH Aachen).