Mesh-preservation approach to treatment of mesh infection after large incisional ventral hernia repair—how I do it

Mesh infection after large incisional ventral hernia repair is a clinical dilemma in abdominal wall hernia surgery. It is believed foreign material should be removed but it causes secondary trauma to the abdominal wall tissue and might be associated with a higher risk of complications. Currently, there is no consensus on mesh-preservation treatment in cases of mesh infection after hernia repair in general. Herein we present the case of a 27-year-old male who recovered well from mesh infection after large incisional ventral hernia repair by mesh-preservation approach. The path to success is choice of material of prosthetic mesh; surgical approach of hernia repair, sufficient wound irrigation and drainage, and acquiring sterility of the mesh surface by wound care techniques such as local iodophor packing and vacuum sealing drainage. Clinical cohorts are needed to verify the feasibility of mesh-preservation treatment of mesh infection after large incisional hernia repair.