Laparoscopic Repair of Para-Esophageal Hernia Using Absorbable Biosynthetic Mesh

Para-esophageal hernia repairs are challenging procedures and there is no consensus on the optimal approach to repair. Mesh reinforcement has been associated with lesser hernia recurrence when compared to the primary suture repair. The type of mesh that is most appropriate is still debatable. Synthetic and biosynthetic materials have been studied in the literature. It is well documented that a synthetic mesh is associated with esophageal erosion and migration into the stomach. Though there are limited long-term data on biosynthetic mesh, the short-term results are excellent and promising.

This paper illustrates how a biosynthetic prosthesis can be safely used with fibrin glue fixation and anterior Dor fundoplication to repair any para-esophageal defect. The absorbable biosynthetic mesh has been shown to produce good long-term patient satisfaction outcomes and low recurrence rates compared to conventional methods including repair with synthetic mesh. This technique also avoids the risk of esophageal erosion whilst strengthening the repair. Tacks that are still widely used to secure the mesh can be abandoned due to the associated risk of developing cardiac tamponade, or other disastrous consequences. This repair method, also, highlights how the prosthesis can be fashioned into a V-shape and easily placed in an onlay fashion behind the esophagus. The protocol demonstrates an alternative and safer method for mesh fixation using fibrin glue.