Bioprosthetic versus synthetic mesh: Analysis of tissue adherence and revascularization in an experimental animal model

David M. Adelman, Kevin G. Cornwell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Both synthetic and bioprosthetic meshes play important roles in urgical procedures such as ventral hernia repair. Although sometimes used inerchangeably, these devices have inherently different properties. We therefore ought to better understand how these materials interact with the host environment to optimize surgical techniques and to improve outcomes. Methods: Synthetic mesh (polypropylene, Prolene) or bioprosthetic mesh (acellular etal/neonatal bovine dermis, SurgiMend) was implanted intraperitoneally into rats ateral to a ventral incision in a novel intra-abdominal implant model. Two variables were modified with each material: (1) tight or loose tissue apposition, altered by modfying suture placement; and (2) abdominal wall injury, altered by selective abrasion of the peritoneal lining. After 5 weeks, the meshes and abdominal wall were evaluted grossly and histologically. The analysis focused on the degree of inflammatory esponse, neovascularization, and mesh adherence to the surrounding tissues. Results: Synthetic mesh adhered to the abdominal wall and visceral organs, regardless of he degree of apposition or tissue injury, due to a foreign body–mediated inflammatory eaction. In areas of noninjured peritoneal lining, SurgiMend was adherent peri-suture. Neovascularization entered the mesh from these apposition points and spread outward. n areas of denuded peritoneal lining, the adherent and vascularized areas were signifiantly greater and not merely coincident with suture placement. Conclusions: The inflammatory and wound healing responses with bioprosthetic mesh seem fundamentally different from synthetic mesh. Understanding these differences may lead to varied outcomes in adherence and vascularization of the materials, and ultimately the efficacy of hernia repair. Additionally, these differnces highlight the need for further basic research to optimize mesh selection for surgical technique.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere1713
JournalPlastic and Reconstructive Surgery - Global Open
Volume6
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Bioprosthetic versus synthetic mesh: Analysis of tissue adherence and revascularization in an experimental animal model'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this