the options. I try to digest all the information and balance that with
what they have read. I provide a wide variety of surgical options to
my patients, including non-surgical options such as watchful waiting.
Each patient may be a good candidate for a different hernia repair
option. Most patients have the option to decide between 1 or 2 good
choices for hernia repair.
6. Are you using the same mesh to repair my
hernia that is used for transvaginal mesh repairs?
The reality is, yes. The fundamental product ingredient, polypropylene,
is the same for most hernia mesh and transvaginal mesh. The 2 repairs,
however, are very different. They differ in the fact that the mesh is
implanted in a different place and in a different way. The anatomy is dif-
ferent. The technique is different. The complication rates are different.
The surgeons are different. On its website, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration has made specific comments about the unique risks and
benefits associated with procedures that use mesh for urogynecologic
procedures to repair pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary inconti-
nence.
7. Is there a perfect mesh?
No, there is no perfect mesh. We are slowly moving toward better
mesh designs, ingredients and options. This is my passion. I hope to
design better mesh that reduces the risk of chronic pain.
8. Are there better options than
mesh for my hernia repair or hernia revision?
Every patient is different. I tell that to my patients. Mesh must be used
to repair some hernias. Some smaller hernias may warrant non-mesh
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