Late-onset deep prosthetic infection following mesh repair of inguinal hernia.
BACKGROUND
The use of prosthetic biomaterials for the primary repair of inguinal hernias is now commonplace. Late-onset deep-seated prosthetic infection can be an unexpected complication.


METHODS
The literature from a Medline search relating to the biology of mesh in the setting of hernia repair is discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of a foreign body for hernia repair does not appear to alter the incidence of superficial wound infection. Late-onset deep graft infection has been rarely reported, and the true incidence is yet to be established. With the more widespread use of mesh materials, this complication may become increasingly evident.
Academic Surgical Unit, St Mary's Hospital, London, England.
D V
DV
Mann
J
J
Prout
E
E
Havranek
S
S
Gould
A
A
Darzi
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019072:Antibiotic Prophylaxis; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000382:microbiology; D016459:Prosthesis-Related Infections / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D013242:Sterilization; D013997:Time Factors
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D001672:Biocompatible Materials