Is Mesh Required for All Hernia Repairs?

Hernia repairs are a common surgical procedure, with over one million performed each year in the United States. While mesh has become a standard approach for many hernia repairs, it is not always required. The decision to use mesh during a hernia repair surgery depends on various factors, including the type and location of the hernia, as well as the surgeon’s preference and the patient’s individual circumstances.

Mesh Use in Hernia Repairs

Surgical mesh is a medical device that is commonly used to reinforce and support the weakened or damaged tissue around a hernia. Mesh can be made from synthetic materials, such as polypropylene, or from biological materials, such as porcine or bovine tissue. The use of mesh in hernia repairs has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of hernia recurrence, with some studies reporting a reduction of up to 50% compared to non-mesh repairs.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), surgeons perform about 90 percent of all inguinal hernia repairs with mesh. However, this does not mean that mesh is required for all hernia repairs. In some cases, particularly for small or uncomplicated hernias, a non-mesh repair using sutures alone may be a viable option.

Factors Influencing Mesh Use

The decision to use mesh during a hernia repair surgery is based on several factors, including the type and location of the hernia, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s preference and experience. For example, mesh may be more commonly used for larger or more complex hernias, as it can provide additional support and reinforcement to the weakened abdominal wall.

In some cases, such as in the presence of an infection or certain medical conditions, the use of mesh may not be recommended. Surgeons will carefully evaluate each patient’s individual circumstances and determine the most appropriate treatment approach, which may or may not include the use of mesh.