Abstract:

BACKGROUND: At present, the hernia patch is mainly made of artificial biomaterials, which will arise some complications in a certain extent.
OBJECTIVE: To review the recent studies and progress of hernia patch, and to explore its developing direction.
METHODS: The databases of Elsevier and CNKI were retrieved by computer with key words of “hernia, patch, polypropylene, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, compound patch” in English and Chinese, respectively. Articles regarding patch classification, biocompatibility and application effects were included.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Polypropylene mesh will conglutinate with tissues in the abdominal cavity, resulting in alimentary canal blocking and intestines fistula. Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene patch with poor reliability and anti-infection ability must be removed as soon as the tissues are infected. Absorbable materials such as polyglycolic acid and polyglaction with perfect anti-infection ability can accelerate the collagen multiplication. The composite patches of polypropylene with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene or absorbable materials are favor of the tissues in-growing and anti-infection. But this kind of patches will cause local tissue inflammation and infection. Fresh materials for patches with outstanding performance and three-dimensional bionics structure must be deeply researched, which will be the most important aspect of hernia patch.