This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Carcinogenic potential of commonly used hernia repair prostheses in an experimental model. BJS 2004; 91: 368-372.
Published: 3rd February 2004
Authors: P. Witherspoon, G. Bryson, D. M. Wright, R. Reid, P. J. O'Dwyer
Background
The purpose of this study was to assess the carcinogenic potential of commonly used hernia repair prostheses in an animal model.
Method
Three types of prosthetic material (monofilament polypropylene, multifilament polypropylene and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) were implanted in CBA/H mice. Flat (1 cm2) and rolled pieces of the same material were placed subcutaneously in either flank, and a further flat piece was placed in the preperitoneal space. Owing to a high incidence of mesh extrusion in the polypropylene groups, the study protocol was modified to allow only preperitoneal placement of the material. A fourth, control, group had the pockets for the prostheses created but no material implanted. After modification of the protocol there were approximately 60 mice in each group. The mice were followed for 2 years, then killed and assessed histologically for tumour development.
Results
No sarcoma developed at the site of mesh implantation in any of the groups.
Conclusion
This study indicates that the risk of sarcoma formation at the site of hernia repair prostheses is very low. Copyright © 2004 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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