Late-onset deep prosthetic infection following mesh repair of inguinal hernia.

BACKGROUND

The use of prosthetic biomaterials for the primary repair of inguinal hernias is now commonplace. Late-onset deep-seated prosthetic infection can be an unexpected complication.

METHODS

The literature from a Medline search relating to the biology of mesh in the setting of hernia repair is discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a foreign body for hernia repair does not appear to alter the incidence of superficial wound infection. Late-onset deep graft infection has been rarely reported, and the true incidence is yet to be established. With the more widespread use of mesh materials, this complication may become increasingly evident.