Prosthetic strap system for simplified ventral hernia repair. Its results in a porcine experimentalmodel.

Abstract: IntroductionAiming to achieve a simplified ventral hernia repair, a proprietary shaped mesh was experimentallytested in the porcine model. The mesh is structured with a large central body and radiating straps. Thefriction of the straps passing through the tissues are hypothesized to be adequate to maintain the meshin place during tissue ingrowth, avoiding classic point fixation while ensuring a wide coverage of theabdomen.MethodsThe mesh, having 6 radial straps, was placed using a sublay preperitoneal technique in 4 pigs. Allstraps were passed laterally through the abdominal wall and exteriorized from the skin. The strapswere trimmed at the level of the skin, allowing the stumps to recoil into the subcutaneous space. Theanimal were euthanized at 1 and 4 months to determine the integration of the straps.ResultsMacroscopically all 24 straps were firmly incorporated within the abdominal wall. The tension freeplacement of the mesh by using the straps was effective. The friction of the straps passing through thetissues was adequate to keep the mesh well orientated. No dislocation of the implants was observed.The strap system also allowed a broader coverage of the abdominal wall, far beyond the woundopening.ConclusionsThe described arm system of the described implant seems to be effective in eliminating point fixationof the mesh. The fixation arms seemed to have ensured the mesh stayed orientated in all animals. Avery wide lateral mesh placement was accomplished, assuring sufficient defect overlap whenshrinkage occurs.