Hernia mesh patch with stiffening layer

Details Hernia mesh patch with stiffening layer Hernia mesh patch with stiffening layer

1999-02-11

2001-01-09

Jackson, Gary (Department: 3731)

Surgery

Instruments

Surgical mesh, connector, clip, clamp or band

C602S044000, C602S058000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06171318

ABSTRACT:

TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention generally relates to a surgically implantable patch for use in repairing a hernia of other wound. More particularly, the present invention relates to a hernia repair patch having a stiffening layer to maintain the patch in a planar configuration.
BACKGROUND
Surgically implantable mesh patches for the repair of inguinal and other abdominal wall hernias, which are intended for permanent placement within a patient's body space, have been provided and used previously. Tension free surgical repairs of hernias have been developed using synthetic mesh materials to bridge and to patch hernia defects. The repairs resulted in both a decrease in the recurrence rate as well as a decrease in the amount of a patient's post operative discomfort. Patients undergoing the more advanced procedures were able and are able to resume their normal activities sooner.
Some of the earlier techniques are somewhat complicated. Several use a plug or a locating member to fit within the hernia defect itself. Also, many of the earlier techniques were designed specifically for use in laparoscopic repair of hernias. Moreover, many of the prior inventions required suturing to the patient's body tissue. Although these medical advances are acknowledged for their usefulness and success, there remains a need or needs for more improvements in the surgical repair of hernias.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
A hernia mesh patch for use in the surgical repair of a patient's inguinal, or other abdominal wall hernias, is disclosed for permanent placement within a patient's body space. The hernia mesh patch of the invention has a top layer and a bottom layer of an inert, synthetic mesh, preferably polypropylene mesh, secured to each other with a seam. The seam defines an interior pocket in the patch. One of the layers has a slit to provide access to the interior of the patch.
To provide stiffness for the patch, a stiffening layer having a circumference slightly smaller than the circumference of the seam is sealed into the patch to keep the hernia mesh patch expanded in a planar configuration. The stiffening layer is preferably made of a resilient mesh material similar to the top and bottom layer but having a greater stiffness. A border on at least one of the layers extends outward past the seam. The border preferably has slits to fill uneven voids in the patient's tissue and fit more tightly.
Without the need for general anesthesia, nor expensive laparoscopic instrumentation, a surgeon makes a small incision in the patient when repairing an inguinal hernia. The incision is approximately three centimeters long, and is arranged obliquely, approximately two to three centimeters above the internal ring location of the inguinal hernia.
Thereafter, the surgeon uses his or her fingers to readily fold and compact the hernia mesh patch and direct it through the incision and into the patient's preeritoneal space. The patch then unfolds and expands into a planar configuration due to the stiffening layer, thereby creating a trampoline effect. Using a finger inserted through an access slit in one of the layers of the patch, the surgeon moves the hernia mesh patch to cover the defect in the patient's abdominal cavity. Thereafter, the surgeon withdraws his or her finger and secures the incision with stitches.
Soon after surgery, the patient's body reacts to the mesh of the hernia mesh patch. In a short time the mesh becomes stuck, thereby keeping the hernia mesh patch in place. Thereafter, the patient's scar tissue grows into the mesh, typically between thirty and sixty days, to permanently fix the hernia mesh patch in its intended position over the repaired area.
Optionally, small holes are cut through both layers of the mesh inside the seam to increase friction and to minimize the sliding or migration of the hernia mesh patch after the patch is positioned. Additionally, small darts may be located on the patch to increase friction.


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