Prophylactic mesh reduces incisional hernia rates in surgeries

Prophylactic mesh reinforcement during elective abdominal surgeries significantly decreased the incidence of incisional hernias (IH) and the need for reoperations. In a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials involving 2,233 patients, mesh use demonstrated a notable reduction of IH at various follow-up points: 12 months (risk ratio 0.35), 24 months (0.28), and 36 months (0.62). However, this technique was linked to higher risks of seroma and wound infections, especially with the sublay approach.