Polypropelene mesh eroding transverse colon following laparoscopic ventral hernia repair

J Minim Access Surg. 2013 Jan;9(1):40-1. doi: 10.4103/0972-9941.107139.

Abstract

Polypropylene mesh when used in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair can produce the worst complication such as enterocutaneous fistula. We report an interesting case of incisional hernia operated with laparoscopic polypropylene mesh hernioplasty who subsequently developed an enterocutaneous fistula 1 month after surgery. A fistulogram showed dye entering into the transverse colon. On exploration, the culprit polypropylene mesh was found to have eroded into the mid-transverse colon causing the fistula. Resection and end-to-end anastomosis of the colon were done with the removal of the mesh. On literature review, polypropylene mesh erosion in to transverse colon is rare.

Keywords: Enterocutaneous fistula; laparoscopic polypropylene mesh hernioplasty; mesh erosion; ventral hernia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports