Prosthetic mesh repair should be used for any defect in the abdominal wall.

The case for mesh versus non-mesh repair of defects in the abdominal wall is argued, with the conclusion that the evidence-base is sufficiently strong to recommend that that all defects in the abdominal wall, whether inguinal, incisional or umbilical hernias, and of whatever size, should be repaired with the use of prosthetic mesh.