Incisional hernia suggestions and concerns

[Unknown Member]

A hybrid such as Tela Bio’s Ovitex may be a less risky type of mesh for autoimmune disease patients. Of course, none of the doctors I have consulted mentioned this. Also, doctors seem very reluctant to have their mesh choice questioned let alone consider patient input or concerns.

Does anyone have any experience with this type of mesh? Thus far, I have only read one post from anyone on this forum who has had this mesh.

[Good intentions]

Here is a recent article about incisional hernias. I don’t know if it wil help you find a surgeon but it might make you think twice about just “giving up” and letting the “system” do what it does. It’s a real mess out there.

Another “wake-up call” in decades of wake-up calls about hernia repair.

https://www.generalsurgerynews.com/In-the-News/Article/08-20/Most-Incisional-Hernia-Readmissions-Occur-After-30-Day-Benchmark/59276?sub=3EE812B720B7F25AEE1D6E19A7F2F04BA1326EBA2AB7F03A17348EF62F9488&enl=true&dgid=&utm_source=enl&utm_content=1&utm_campaign=20200812&utm_medium=title

” “This should be another wake-up call—not only to hernia surgeons, but also to hospitals, payors and those funding quality improvement and research efforts,” Dr. Poulose said.”

• This reply was modified 4 years, 4 months ago by  Good intentions.

[Unknown Member]

This may help others researching this topic:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHMui-wcve4

[Unknown Member]

I appreciate that. Unfortunately, I’ve contacted Shouldice clinic and 3 physicians in person and they all stated mesh is required for my variety of hernia.

So, now I am finding that mesh is chosen by cost and “practical” considerations (e.g. what works best for most).

I’ve been told the complications are almost all related to vaginal mesh and my rejection or reaction concerns are unwarranted.

Still wondering what these “mesh options” are?

[Momof4]

I disagree with the statement that Polypropelene can’t be rejected! You can have an allergic reaction and/or foreign body response to mesh. I know because it has happened to me with 2 different materials, both synthetic. It has caused lots of suffering and health problems (still is)! Dr. Towfigh has offered her opinion and advice concerning such issues and also issues With mesh arising from existing autoimmune disease and allergies. Search the forum for more information. You need to know the true risks before deciding on a mesh repair. Wishing you the best outcome possible.

[Unknown Member]

I have now visited a 3rd doctor. They advised autoimmune concerns were not warranted since polypropylene cannot be rejected. Is there any difference?

One doctor uses lightweight mesh, the other medium weigh mesh. They stated the medium mesh was stronger. Also, this last doctor mentioned the possibility of a drain. This is the first time anyone has mentioned that; so, that makes me wonder.

I am ready to quit fighting and just get surgery since, it seems like the repair can only be done one way and risks vs. stress is becoming a concern.

Any opinions, insights or help is appreciated!

[Unknown Member]

Sorry but I meant previous consultations did not address those concerns. This website and your reply have been vastly more informative since, autoimmune issues and mesh seem to be not very well researched.

Thank-you Dr. Towfigh!

[drtowfigh]

The point is, there are mesh options that are less likely to interfere with your autoimmune disorder and this minimize risk for mesh reaction.

[Unknown Member]

Than-you for the information regarding mesh. I had no idea there were so many varieties and materials. My questions regarding regarding mesh and autoimmune disease were not addressed.

[drtowfigh]

Choose a surgeon you trust and consider multiple consultations if you need. Incisional hernias require mesh. Laparoscopic and open repairs have various pros and cons. There are a wide variety of mesh options, given your autoimmune status.