Surgical mesh

Surgical Mesh

Surgical mesh (pronunciation: /ˈsɜːrdʒɪkəl mɛʃ/) is a loosely woven sheet which is used as either a permanent or temporary support for organs and other tissues during surgery. Surgical mesh is created from both inorganic and biological materials and is used in a variety of surgeries, notably in hernia repair, pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence.

Etymology

The term "surgical" is derived from the Greek word "cheirourgikos", meaning "hand work". The term "mesh" comes from the Old English "masc", meaning "net".

Types of Surgical Mesh

There are several types of surgical mesh, including:

Non-absorbable mesh: This type of mesh is made from synthetic materials and is intended to provide permanent support to the affected area.
Absorbable mesh: This mesh degrades and loses strength over time. It is not intended to provide long-term reinforcement but instead to serve as temporary support while new tissue grows.
Biologic mesh: Made from animal tissue, this mesh is absorbable and is used in contaminated fields to reduce the risk of infection.
Composite mesh: This mesh is a combination of absorbable and non-absorbable materials.

Complications

While surgical mesh can provide significant benefits, it is not without risk. Complications can include mesh erosion, infection, pain, hernia recurrence, adhesion, and bowel obstruction.

Related Terms

Hernia: A condition in which an organ pushes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place.
Pelvic organ prolapse: A condition in which the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs become weak or loose.
Stress urinary incontinence: A condition that causes unintentional loss of urine during physical movement or activity.