Characteristics of prosthetic mesh and autogenous fascia in abdominal wall reconstruction after prolonged implantation.

This study evaluated two types of prosthetic mesh and autogenous fascia in long-term abdominal wall reconstruction for rats. Marlex mesh, Gore-Tex patch, and autogenous fascia were implanted and left in place for 1 year. Materials were removed and evaluated using tensile strength of the material, tensile strength of the suture line, and adhesions. No change in the tensile strength of any of the materials were found at 1 year follow-up. Tensile strengths were significantly greater for Gore-Tex patch and Marlex mesh than the autogenous fascia. The Marlex mesh, however, had a weak and a strong tensile strength direction. These were significantly different (p < 0.05). Suture line tensile strength was greater for autogenous fascia and Marlex mesh than it was for the Gore-Tex patch, which was significantly weaker (p < 0.05). The greatest number of adhesions were seen in the Marlex mesh group. No significant difference was present in adhesions between Gore-Tex patch and autogenous fascia. In summary, autogenous fascia showed virtually no adhesions and good suture line strength. While it was the weakest of the three materials examined, the strength was still within the normal range and adequate for abdominal wall reconstruction.