Hernia Mesh: Uses, Advantages, Type and Cost

Hernia Mesh: Uses, Advantages, Type and Cost

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.

Read More: What is Hernia?

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.

Key advantages:

• Provides tension-free repair
• Covers the defect completely
• Supports surrounding tissues
• Reduces risk of recurrence
• Stronger repair compared to suture-only techniques

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.

Types of mesh:

• Regular Proline Mesh - Standard mesh material
• Lightweight Mesh - Lighter weight for better comfort
• Composite Mesh - Multi-layered mesh with special properties
• Dual Mesh - Mesh with different surfaces for different applications
• Self-Fixation Mesh - Mesh that adheres without additional fixation

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.

Inguinal or Femoral Hernia

If carried out laparoscopically or robotically, the best mesh for inguinal or femoral hernia can cost approximately Rs 12000.

Ventral or Umbilical Hernia

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.

Factors affecting mesh cost:

• Type of hernia
• Size of the hernia defect
• Type of mesh selected
• Brand and quality of mesh
• Surgical approach (laparoscopic, robotic, or open)

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 surgeon in delhi, 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.

When mesh may not be required:

• Small hernias in young children
• Teenagers with small inguinal hernias
• Very small defects that can be repaired with sutures alone
• Cases where patient has specific contraindications to mesh

When mesh is typically required:

• Large hernia defects
• Adult patients with inguinal or femoral hernias
• Ventral or incisional hernias
• Recurrent hernias
• Cases requiring tension-free repair

Choosing the Right Mesh

The selection of mesh depends on several factors:

• Hernia location - Different types of hernias may require different mesh types
• Hernia size - Larger defects may need stronger or larger mesh
• Patient factors - Age, activity level, and medical history
• Surgical approach - Laparoscopic, robotic, or open surgery
• Surgeon's expertise - Experience with different mesh types

Conclusion

Hernia mesh is an important component of modern hernia repair surgery, providing stronger, tension-free repairs with lower recurrence rates. The type and cost of mesh vary based on the hernia characteristics and patient needs. It's essential to consult with an experienced hernia surgeon like Dr. Kapil Agrawal to determine the best treatment approach, including whether mesh is necessary and which type would be most suitable for your specific case.