Biomechanical analysis of polypropylene prosthetic implants for hernia repair: an experimental study

BACKGROUND: Although polypropylene (PP) is the most common biomaterial used for ventral and inguinal hernia repairs, its mechanical properties remain obscure. METHODS: Retraction, solidity, and elasticity of 3 large pore-size monofilament PP prostheses, 1 heavy-weight PP (HWPP), a second low-weight PP, and a third coated with atelocollagen were evaluated in a rabbit incisional hernia model. A small pore-size multifilament PP implant (MPP) also was tested. RESULTS: Unlike pore size, the weight of the prosthesis was not an influencing factor for retraction. Atelocollagen coating reduced retraction (P < .05). HWPP and MPP were less likely to rupture (P < .05). HWPP had comparatively better elasticity (P < .05), whereas MPP supported the greatest elastic force (P < .05). Nevertheless, the amount of shrinkage of MPP (30% of the original size) made this prosthesis unusable. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, HWPP presented the most advantageous biomechanical compromise for hernia surgery. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.