Sciatic hernias: choice of optimal prosthetic repair material in preventing long-term morbidity

Summary The case of a 77-year old female who presented with a buttock lump is reported. A sciatic hernia was diagnosed clinically. A transabdominal approach revealed this to be a greater sciatic hernia, which was repaired using an onlay of Gore-Tex dual mesh. Sciatic hernias are extremely rare, and it is the authors' opinion that use of such an inert material within the pelvis may prevent morbidity due to adhesions. The rationale for using this material in preference to other commonly used materials is discussed.