9 6 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 7
Getting a Grip on
Hernia Mesh Fixation
S
urgical mesh is a tried-and-true solution for repairing
the defects associated with inguinal, umbilical and ven-
tral hernias, but only if the mesh remains firmly in
place. Thankfully, whether a surgeon chooses to repair
the defect through open surgery, laparoscopy or with
robotic assistance, he has a near-infinite list of options for fixating the
mesh — and new tools and devices are continually joining the fold.
The surplus of options begs the natural, yet controversial, question:
"Which one is the safest and most reliable?" That's akin to asking a
mother of 3 to choose her favorite child. The truth is that there's no
such thing as "one size fits all." Many factors will influence which fixa-
tion method you choose, from the size and type of the hernia, to the
surgical approach, to surgeon preference.
Let's take a look at the 5 most common means of fixation and see
how they stack up in terms of their ability to reduce post-operative
complications, prevent recurrence and control costs, which is espe-
cially vital in an era of declining reimbursements.
Reliable options abound for keeping mesh in its proper place
after hernia repair.
Mark A. Reiner, MD | New York, N.Y.
