USE OF MESH IN PARAESPHAGEAL HERNIA REPAIRS

Objectives: The use of mesh in paraesophageal hernia repair has been much debated. We analyzed one surgeon's experience with the use of mesh and analyze the rates of recurrence, complications, and side effects.

Methods: This is a retrospective study from January of 2017 to July of 2021 of patients undergoing repair of paraesophageal hernia. We analyzed 89 patients, 36 having repair without mesh and 53 having repair with mesh. Chi square test was used to analyze the data.

Results: The analysis of 89 patients, with 36 (40.4%) of patients underwent repair without mesh and 53 (59.9%) of patients underwent repair with U shaped mesh placement. We compared recurrence rates, mortality, and improvement in symptoms. No significant difference was found with our comparisons. The recurrence rate trended towards significance with there being more recurrences, more early satiety, and regurgitation symptoms in patients that received a mesh. The average time for follow up was similar in both groups at a year and a half.

Conclusion: Using mesh in repair of paraesophageal hernia remains a controversial topic. No difference was noted in this study but had trend towards significance with comparison of recurrences, early satiety, and regurgitation symptoms.