Our Summary

This study is about the economic impact of different types of mesh used for hernia repair surgery. The researchers created a model to compare the costs of using synthetic, biosynthetic, or biological meshes for complex abdominal hernias. They looked at the current rates of mesh use in Italy, and then created hypothetical scenarios where the use of biosynthetic mesh increases over the next five years.

They found that increasing the use of biosynthetic mesh could lead to significant cost savings for hospitals. If the number of hernia repairs stays the same (around 40,000 per year), hospitals could save about €153 million over five years, or about €770 per patient.

The researchers conclude that using more biosynthetic mesh for complex hernias could be a good way to reduce hospital costs in Italy. However, they also say that more research is needed to better understand the cost-effectiveness of these newer, advanced devices.

FAQs

  1. What was the focus of the hernia repair study?
  2. What were the potential cost savings found by the researchers if the use of biosynthetic mesh increases?
  3. What conclusion did the researchers draw about the use of biosynthetic mesh in hernia repairs?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient that using biosynthetic mesh for hernia repair surgery could potentially lead to cost savings for hospitals. This may be important information for patients to consider when discussing treatment options with their healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hernia repair surgery include those with:

  • Inguinal hernias: the most common type of hernia that occurs when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
  • Ventral hernias: occur when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, often at the site of a previous surgical incision.
  • Incisional hernias: a type of ventral hernia that occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision.
  • Umbilical hernias: occur when tissue protrudes through a weak spot near the belly button.
  • Hiatal hernias: occur when part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
  • Femoral hernias: occur when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the groin area.

Patients with these types of hernias may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, and a visible bulge in the affected area. If these symptoms are severe or persistent, surgery may be recommended to repair the hernia and prevent complications such as incarceration or strangulation.

Timeline

Before hernia repair surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and a visible bulge in the affected area. They may also undergo diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or MRI to confirm the presence of a hernia.

After hernia repair surgery, the patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the surgical site, which can be managed with pain medication. They will need to follow post-operative instructions such as avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a period of time. The patient will also have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their recovery and ensure that the hernia has been successfully repaired.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hernia repair include:

  1. What type of mesh do you recommend for my hernia repair surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with using synthetic, biosynthetic, or biological mesh?
  3. How will the choice of mesh impact my recovery time and post-operative pain?
  4. Are there any long-term considerations or implications for using a specific type of mesh?
  5. Will the type of mesh used affect the likelihood of hernia recurrence in the future?
  6. Are there any specific factors about my hernia or medical history that make one type of mesh more suitable for me than another?
  7. How does the cost of the mesh factor into the overall cost of the surgery and my potential out-of-pocket expenses?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to hernia repair surgery that I should consider?
  9. What is your experience and success rate with using different types of mesh for hernia repair surgeries?
  10. Are there any ongoing clinical trials or research studies that I should be aware of regarding hernia repair and mesh options?

Reference

Authors: Rognoni C, Bassi UA, Cataldo M, Crovella C, Crovella F, Cuccurullo D, Cudemo M, De Nicola E, De Paolis P, Greco VM, Marioni A, Pessione S, Piccoli M, Rosignoli A, Sagnelli C, Silvestro R, Tarricone R, Trapani V, Soliani G. Journal: Clin Ther. 2018 Nov;40(11):1830-1844.e4. doi: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2018.09.003. Epub 2018 Oct 20. PMID: 30348513