Porcine dermis implants in soft-tissue reconstruction: current status

Abstract

Neil J Smart,1 Nicholas Bryan,2 John A Hunt,2 Ian R Daniels1 1Exeter Surgical Health Services Research Unit, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, UK; 2Clinical Engineering (UKCTE), The Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK Abstract: Soft-tissue reconstruction for a variety of surgical conditions, such as abdominal wall hernia or pelvic organ prolapse, remains a challenge. There are numerous meshes available that may be simply categorized as either synthetic or biologic. Within biologic meshes, porcine dermal meshes have come to dominate the market. This review examines the current evidence for their use and the limitations of knowledge. Although there is increasing evidence to support their safety, long-term follow-up studies that support their efficacy are lacking. Numerous clinical trials that remain ongoing may help elucidate their precise role in soft-tissue reconstruction. Keywords: hernia, mesh, xenograft, biologic