Efficacy and safety of a novel partially absorbable mesh in totally extraperitoneal hernia repair

Purpose Partially absorbable mesh has been introduced and used for inguinal hernia repair for the purpose of minimizing pain and improving abdominal wall compliance. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy and safety of ProFlex mesh, a partially absorbed mesh with new structural architecture. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 64 cases of totally extraperitoneal herniorrhapy (TEP) from January 2013 to December 2014 for their clinical features, including operation time, pain, postoperative complications, and recurrence. Results There were no significant differences in operation time, hospital stay, postoperative pain, or complications between the 28 patients who received the ProFlex mesh and the 36 who received nonabsorbable lightweight mesh, although one patient who received the nonabsorbable had a recurrence during follow-up. There were differences in operation time, complications, and hospital stay according to the surgeon's previous operation volume. Conclusion This study showed that there were significant differences in the fixation strength of different polypropylene meshes in combination with various fibrin glues. ProFlex, a partially absorbable mesh with new architecture, was feasible and safe in TEP.