Let’s Address Hernia Mesh

Why Mesh is Used in Hernia Repair
When I meet with patients about hernia repair, one of the most important topics we discuss is the use of mesh. A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, and while stitches alone can close the defect, the risk of the hernia coming back is much higher if mesh isn’t used. Mesh acts as a reinforcement—like a patch that strengthens the repair—helping the body heal more securely and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

Recurrence Rates and Outcomes
The numbers tell the story clearly. With traditional suture-only repairs, recurrence rates can be as high as 20–30%, especially for larger hernias or in areas under stress. By contrast, when mesh is used, recurrence rates often drop below 5–10%, (even lower in my hands). In addition, patients with mesh repairs generally recover well, return to activity more quickly, and enjoy long-term durability of their repair. For these reasons, mesh has become the standard of care for most hernia repairs worldwide.

Addressing Concerns About Lawsuits
I know many patients have seen advertisements about lawsuits involving hernia mesh, and it’s natural to be concerned. It’s important to understand that those lawsuits involved specific mesh products that are no longer on the market. Modern meshes have been studied extensively and are safe and effective. In my practice, I use meshes that have a long track record of success and are designed to integrate smoothly with the body’s tissues. While no medical device is completely without risk, the benefits of mesh in preventing recurrence far outweigh the small chance of complications.

Common Mesh Materials
Most meshes used today are made from synthetic materials such as polypropylene or polyester, which are well-tolerated by the body. Some are permanent, designed to provide lifelong reinforcement, while others are partially absorbable, leaving behind a lighter scaffold of support. In certain specialized cases, biologic meshes made from animal tissue are used, though these are less common and usually reserved for complex or contaminated surgical fields. The type of mesh I select is based on the size and location of the hernia, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Overall Outcomes for Patients
From my perspective as a surgeon, the use of mesh has transformed hernia surgery into one of the most reliable operations we perform. It allows me to offer patients a strong, durable repair with a low chance of the hernia returning. By combining careful surgical technique with the right choice of mesh, we can achieve excellent outcomes and get patients back to their normal lives more quickly. While it’s wise to be aware of past concerns, modern mesh technology has proven to be both safe and highly effective, making it an essential tool in hernia surgery today.