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At the 8th World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS) 2025, Dr. Neeraj Goel presented a groundbreaking session on the use of fully absorbable mesh for hernia repair. His talk explored the evolution, benefits, and clinical outcomes associated with this innovative approach to hernia surgery.
Why Fully Absorbable Mesh?
Traditional synthetic meshes, though effective, have been associated with foreign body reactions, chronic pain, and mesh-related complications. Fully absorbable meshes, composed of biodegradable polymers, offer a temporary scaffold for tissue regeneration, ultimately being replaced by native collagen.
Key Advantages of Fully Absorbable Mesh
✅ Reduced Risk of Chronic Inflammation – Since the mesh dissolves over time, the risk of chronic foreign body reactions is minimized.
✅ Lower Infection Rates – Unlike permanent meshes, absorbable materials reduce long-term infection risks.
✅ Enhanced Tissue Integration – Promotes natural collagen deposition and healing.
✅ Ideal for Contaminated Fields – Suitable for cases where traditional synthetic meshes may pose infection risks.
Clinical Evidence & Surgical Applications
Dr. Goel presented clinical studies demonstrating favorable results in selected cases, particularly in:
🔹 Inguinal and Incisional Hernia Repair
🔹 Contaminated Surgical Fields
🔹 Young and Active Patients – Avoiding permanent foreign bodies in younger patients with long life expectancy.
He also discussed the limitations of absorbable mesh, including:
🔸 Cost Considerations – Higher initial costs compared to traditional meshes.
🔸 Risk of Recurrence – Requires meticulous patient selection to ensure long-term success.
Future of Hernia Repair with Absorbable Mesh
With advancements in biomaterials and tissue engineering, fully absorbable mesh is paving the way for a more physiological and complication-free hernia repair approach. However, ongoing studies are needed to establish long-term durability and cost-effectiveness.
Dr. Neeraj Goel’s insights at WALS 2025 emphasized that while fully absorbable meshes are not yet a universal replacement for synthetic meshes, they represent a valuable option in select cases where minimizing foreign body presence is a priority.
