When hernia mesh erodes into the bowel: A “bezoar” case

Abstract

Incisional hernia repair surgery is commonly performed by using a synthetic mesh; due to its low complication rate. This article describes the management of a patient with mesh erosion into the small bowel, a rare complication of mesh-based ventral hernia repair. Fatigue secondary to iron-deficiency anemia and disfigurement from his hernia were his only symptoms. The patient was conservatively managed for several years due to the risks associated with restorative surgery. Eventually, due to deterioration of his health as well as advances in the techniques of abdominal wall reconstruction, the patient underwent surgery. The patient made excellent recovery. The complications associated with the synthetic mesh are likely to be very underreported. This article discusses the factors leading to mesh erosion, including mesh type, fixation methods, mesh migration, and mesh position, and it emphasizes the importance of reporting and following up hernia patients to advance the science behind mesh technology and surgical techniques surrounding ventral hernia repair.