Dimensions of the myopectineal orifice: a human cadaver study

Abstract

In mesh implantations, there needs to be a balance between mass and the size of the meshes. However, the mesh size should allow for adequate prevention of hernia recurrence by sufficient coverage of the entire myopectineal orifice (MPO). The aim was to determine the MPO dimensions and several pelvic parameters. Thirty-two inguinal regions were assessed in 16 embalmed cadavers. The MPO averaged 7.8 cm (+/-3.0) in width and 6.5 cm (+/-1.9) in height. The weak inguinal area cranially to the inguinal ligament was 4.5 cm (+/-1.7) high. We found significant gender differences: MPOs in males showed the same width and height (7.6 x 7.6 cm), whereas in females, the MPO width was greater than its height (8.1 x 5.3 cm). Noticeable correlations of the MPO parameters to constitutional parameters were found for body size versus the height of the MPO (r = 0.5005) and interspinous distance versus the height of the MPO (r = 0.7653). A mesh measuring 10 x 8 cm is suitable for both genders: in females, it will cover the whole MPO, including the infraligamental part, whereas in males, the weak inguinal area is preferentially covered.