Comparison between absorbable and nonabsorbable material in mesh repair of inguinal hernia

Abstract

Hernia is an abnormal protrusion of a peritoneal lined sac through the musculo-aponeurotic covering of the abdomen. The word hernia is a Latin term that means rupture of a structure, result in the inability to contain the visceral contents of the abdominal cavity within their normal confines(Eubanks s1999). Inguinal hernias are common worldwide; the lifetime risk for men is 27% and for women 3%. It has been estimated that worldwide over 20 million repairs of inguinal hernia are carried out each year(Kingsnorth BMJ.2004). Over the years, repair of groin hernias has evolved from primary tissue repairs, which have been plagued by high recurrence rates secondary to tension imposed on the apposed tissue and postoperative pain to tension-free mesh repairs( Awad SS2004). The goals of successful hernia repair must include achievement of an effective repair with the lowest possible recurrence, minimal operative and postoperative discomfort with a rapid return to normal activity, and a repair that is cost-effective(Awad SS2004). Success of groin hernia repair depends largely on the surgeon’s understanding of its pathophysiology and the functional anatomy of the abdominal wall and groin, as well as knowledge of how to use the currently available techniques and materials most effectively. Improvements in surgical technique, together with the development of new prosthetic materials and a better understanding of how to use them, have significantly improved outcomes for many patients. The most important advance in hernia surgery has been the development of tension-free repairs( Awad SS2004).