Knitted polypropylene (Marlex) mesh in the repair of incisional hernias.

In 50 consecutive patients, large incisional hernias or those difficult to manage were repaired by suture imbrication of the hernial sac and extrafascial onlay fixation of Marlex mesh. Seromas developed in three and wound infection in two. The use of closed suction drains for all patients and antibiotic prophylaxis before and after operation for patients with antecedent wound infections may prevent these complications. In the follow-up period (mean of 2.6 years), lateral recurrence of the hernias occurred in three patients, but there has been no recurrence in the last 2 years. The method of repair is simple and effective.