Multicentric observational cohort study evaluating a composite mesh with incorporated oxidized regenerated cellulose in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair

Background A variety of newly developed mesh products have recently become available to use inside the peritoneal cavity. This analysis reports the first clinical data evaluating the experience with the use of Proceed® mesh in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. Patients and methods During a 6-month period, 114 adult patients underwent a laparoscopic ventral hernia repair using an intra-abdominal placement of a Proceed mesh. The operative procedure was stratified for all centers. Perioperatively, different parameters were evaluated considering the conversion rate to open procedure, complications such as seroma and hematoma, bowel lesions, urinary retention, acute, and chronic pain, mesh infection, and recurrences. Results The mean age of the patients was 45 years (range 19–84 years). There were no conversions to open repair and no mortality. Complications included 12 seromas/hematomas (four aspirated), chronic discomfort in two patients, and urinary retention in one patient. There have been four recurrences (3.5%), occurring 3, 4, 4, and 15 months after surgery, respectively. The mean follow-up period was 27 months (range 12–38 months). There have been no documented infections of the mesh. Conclusions This multicentric study documents a favorable experience using large-pore mesh in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. There were no major complications related to the mesh. Technical advantages considering mesh handling and long-term advantages considering chronic pain might be of interest with the use of this lightweight mesh for minimally invasive ventral hernia repair.