Is biological mesh a suitable option for laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) repair in the treatment of abdominal wall hernias?

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of biological mesh in laparoscopic abdominal wall hernia repair. Methods From January 2021 to January 2022, the clinical data of 30 patients with various types of abdominal wall hernias were analyzed. These patients underwent laparoscopic abdominal wall hernia repair via biological mesh. Preoperative general information as well as complications, adverse events and the hospitalization costs, were monitored and analyzed. Results In this study, the patients’ ages ranged from 28 to 65 years, and the length of their hospital stays ranged from 4 to 10 days. The surgical method employed was laparoscopic abdominal wall hernia repair, with operation times ranging from 50 to 80 minutes. Follow-up evaluations were conducted at 7 days, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years post-operation. No patients were lost to follow-up during this period. Additionally, there were no cases of abdominal hernia recurrence, intestinal fistula, intestinal obstruction, wound infection, mesh infection, chronic pain, or foreign body sensation. One patient developed seroma, which was cured via drainage. The patients’ hospitalization costs ranged from 30,320 to 59,810 yuan. Conclusion The use of biological mesh for laparoscopic abdominal wall hernia repair is both effective and safe, making it a valuable option for clinical application, especially for young patients.