RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: The management of incisional hernias remains a challenge for the general surgeon. Repairing by using prosthetic materials has reduced the relapse rate, but intra-abdominal mesh placement continues to be a source of controversy. OBJECTIVE: An evaluation is made of the results of treating incisional hernias with a new intra-abdominal low-density composite mesh through both the open and the laparoscopic approach. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective analysis was made on the first 50 patients operated upon for incisional hernia through the open (n=20) or laparoscopic route (n=30), with intra-abdominal repair using the Proceed composite mesh, composed of low-density polypropylene and a hydrophilic antiadherent membrane of oxidized regenerated cellulose. RESULTS: There were no patient deaths. Reintervention proved necessary in one case due to hemoperitoneum caused by a trocar. The mean duration of stay was 3 days, and all patients recovered bowel transit within 24 hours. During follow-up there were no intra-abdominal complications associated with the use of the mesh (intestinal occlusion or subocclusion, prolonged ileus, infections, rejection, fistulas, or relapses). CONCLUSIONS: Incision hernia repair using the intra-abdominal low-density composite mesh is safe and well tolerated. Proceed mesh facilitates laparoscopic hernioplasty maneuvering.
