Hernia is a common health problem that can sometimes cause life-threatening complications if left untreated. A hernia occurs when an intestine or any abdominal organ pushes through the muscle layer due to a tear or defect in the muscles. There are many types of hernia, but the most common are found in the groin (inguinal and femoral) and umbilical area. Other types of hernia include epigastric, ventral, or incisional hernia, obturator hernia, hiatus hernia, and mesh in hernia repair.
Hernia can grow over a while and may even become painful. Sometimes, the bowel or intestine can get blocked after it gets stuck in the hernia defect, resulting in severe pain in the abdomen, nausea, and vomiting.
Expect a small umbilical hernia in newborn children. A hernia can be repaired surgically or done through laparoscopic, robotic, or open surgery.
Irrespective of the repair, most cases require a mesh to plug the hole or defect. Most patients have queries regarding the use of mesh and its necessity, and here we answer frequently asked questions about the mesh used to repair them.
What is Mesh?
A mesh is a flat prosthetic material used to cover the defect or hole. They are made of non-reactive material and are usually permanent.
What is the advantage of mesh in hernia repair?
Mesh in hernia repair usually acts as a patch to cover the defect, thus providing a tension-free repair—the more significant the defect, the more the indication for using mesh. The mesh can cover the defect completely and provide support to surrounding tissues.
What are the different types of mesh?
With technological advancements, different meshes are available in the market today. There are normal proline. With technological advancements, different meshes are general in the market today—regular proline, lightweight, composite, dual, and self-fixation meshes.
Cost of mesh in hernia surgery
There are different types of mesh available in the market. The mesh cost can range from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 40000. Patients have other requirements and various indications. It depends upon the site, size of the hernia, and type of hernia repair, which mesh will be the best for a particular patient.
If carried out laparoscopically or robotically, the best mesh for inguinal or femoral hernia can cost approximately Rs 12000. However, in ventral or umbilical hernia, the mesh cost can vary from Rs 22000 to Rs 38000, depending upon the size and company of the mesh.
Is mesh required in every hernia repair?
No, the mesh will not be indicated in every hernia surgery. Dr.Kapil Agrawal, one of the best hernia surgeons, says using mesh should be case-specific. According to him, the size of the hernia defect, the patient’s age, and even the type of hernia should be considered before using mesh. For example, young children and teenagers undergoing inguinal hernia repair do not require the use of mesh.