[The use of prosthetic materials placed intraperitoneally in the repair of large defects of the abdominal wall, reflections on a limited case series].

To evaluate the best prosthetic material in direct contact with intestinal loops in the repair of large abdominal wall defects, four cases were reevaluated and an extensive review of the literature was undertake to point out the pathophysiology of prosthetic materials in abdominal wall surgery. For its intrinsic features, Gore-Tex represents the best prosthetic material to locate intraperitoneally, but the slow foreign body reaction is responsible for postoperative complications (e.g. hematoma, seroma, dehiscence). Marlex should not be used in direct contact with intestine because of the risk of multiple fistulas, very difficult to treat, while, the intense foreign body reaction rapidly integrate the mesh into the abdominal wall. To treat large abdominal wall defects are now been proposed mixed prostheses (Gore-Tex in intraperitoneal location, Marlex at the exterior) and dual mesh Gore-Tex (two textures at different microporosity on each side of the mesh). Preliminary studies have shown the safety and utility of these prostheses.