Alternative Fixation Method Research Articles

The comparison of plate-screw and tension band techniques in the osteosynthesis of Danis-Weber Type A and B lateral malleolar fractures

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiological results of plate-screw and tension band fixation in isolated Danis-Weber Type A and B lateral malleolar fractures. A total of 135 cases of lateral malleolar fractures (82 Danis-Weber Type B and 53 Type A) operated on in 4 different centers and 6 orthopaedic clinics between November 2005 and December 2010 were reviewed retrospectively. Eigthy-one patients (55 Type B and 26 Type A) had lateral 1/3 tubular plate and screw fixation (Group 1), while the remaining 54 patients (27 Type B and 27 Type A) were operated on with tension band technique (Group 2). The clinical and radiological results of the groups were compared. Student t test was used in statistical analysis. The mean length of surgical incision scar was 4.9 cm (4.5-5.4 cm) for Type A fractures and 6.8 cm (5.6-7.5 cm) for Type B in Group 1 and 4.0 cm (3.5-5.2 cm) for Type A and 5.3 cm (5.0-5.9 cm) for Type B fractures in Group 2. Radiological union was obtained at mean of 10 weeks (7-13 weeks) in Group 1 and 9 weeks (7-12) in Group 2. The implant had to be removed in 12 patients in Group 1 and in one patient in Group 2. The mean AOFAS Score was 90 (72-100) and 92 (70-100) in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Both plate-screw and tension band techniques revealed excellent results in isolated Danis-Weber Type A and B fractures. The tension band technique may be an alternative fixation method in the treatment of these fractures.

Lumbosacral Fixation Using the Diagonal S2 Screw for Long Fusion in Degenerative Lumbar Deformity: Technical Note Involving 13 Cases

Placing instrumentation into the ilium has been shown to increase the biomechanical stability and the fusion rates, but it has some disadvantages. The diagonal S2 screw technique is an attractive surgical procedure for degenerative lumbar deformity. Between 2008 and 2010, we carried out long fusion across the lumbosacral junction in 13 patients with a degenerative lumbar deformity using the diagonal S2 screws. In 12 of these 13 patients, the lumbosacral fusion was graded as solid fusion with obvious bridging bone (92%). One patient had a rod dislodge at one S2 screw and breakage of one S1 screw and underwent revision nine months postoperatively. So, we present alternative method of lumbopelvic fixation for long fusion in degenerative lumbar deformity using diagonal S2 screw instead of iliac screw.

A biomechanical analysis of initial fixation options for porous-tantalum-backed glenoid components

Porous-tantalum (PT)-backed glenoid components have recently been developed to improve fixation and minimize the incidence of glenoid component loosening, which remains a key limiting factor in long-term survival in total shoulder arthroplasty. PT-backed glenoids promote bony ingrowth as a method of preventing glenoid loosening at the prosthesis-glenoid interface. The use of polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) cement for initial fixation may prevent osteointegration due to mechanical occlusion of the porous surface and the nonosteoconductive properties of PMMA. This study aims to investigate alternative fixation methods of PT-backed glenoids in a biomechanical investigation. Nine PT-backed monoblock glenoid components were implanted in apolyurethane bone substitute using either press-fit, PMMA cement, or calcium phosphate cement techniques. A control group of 3 all-polyethylene pegged glenoid components was implanted with PMMA. Glenoid and humeral head components were fixed to a biomechanical testing machine for testing according to ASTM Standard F-2028. The humeral head was translated ±1.5 mm along the superior-inferior axis for 50,000 cycles for characterization of glenoid rocking and inferior-superior translation. Glenoid compression and glenoid distraction followed similar patterns for PT-backed glenoids. Overall, the all-polyethylene cemented glenoid demonstrated superior fixation comparedto all PT-backed groups throughout the test. Glenoids fixed with PMMA cement displayed more favorable initial fixation and resistance to glenoid motion throughout cyclic testing. This study showed that among PT-backed glenoids, PMMA fixation provided an increasein stability during initial and final cycles compared to press-fit and calcium-phosphate fixation techniques. This improved stability may enhance the osteointegration of the implant.

The treatment of unstable fractures of the ankle using the Acumed fibular nail

Techniques for fixation of fractures of the lateral malleolus have remained essentially unchanged since the 1960s, but are associated with complication rates of up to 30%. The fibular nail is an alternative method of fixation requiring a minimal incision and tissue dissection, and has the potential to reduce the incidence of complications. We reviewed the results of 105 patients with unstable fractures of the ankle that were fixed between 2002 and 2010 using the Acumed fibular nail. The mean age of the patients was 64.8 years (22 to 95), and 80 (76%) had significant systemic medical comorbidities. Various different configurations of locking screw were assessed over the study period as experience was gained with the device. Nailing without the use of locking screws gave satisfactory stability in only 66% of cases (4 of 6). Initial locking screw constructs rendered between 91% (10 of 11) and 96% (23 of 24) of ankles stable. Overall, seven patients had loss of fixation of the fracture and there were five post-operative wound infections related to the distal fibula. This lead to the development of the current technique with a screw across the syndesmosis in addition to a distal locking screw. In 21 patients treated with this technique there have been no significant complications and only one superficial wound infection. Good fracture reduction was achieved in all of these patients. The mean physical component Short-Form 12, Olerud and Molander score, and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Foot and Ankle outcome scores at a mean of six years post-injury were 46 (28 to 61), 65 (35 to 100) and 83 (52 to 99), respectively. There have been no cases of fibular nonunion. Nailing of the fibula using our current technique gives good radiological and functional outcomes with minimal complications, and should be considered in the management of patients with an unstable ankle fracture.

Clinical outcome and quality of life in 100 consecutive laparoscopic totally extra-peritoneal (TEP) groin hernia repairs using fibrin glue (Tisseel™): a United Kingdom experience

The use of fibrin sealant (FS) (Tisseel™) for mesh fixation in patients undergoing laparoscopic groin hernia surgery is a well-recognised technique in Europe, but no study to date has examined effect on quality of life (QoL) on patients undergoing FS mesh fixation. A prospective study was therefore conducted to examine the effects on QoL of patients undergoing laparoscopic groin hernia surgery using FS in the United Kingdom. Between March 2007 and January 2011, all patients undergoing laparoscopic total extra preperitoneal (TEP) groin hernia repair using FS were included in the study. A validated hernia questionnaire from The Royal College of Surgeons of England supplemented by the EORTC QLQ C-30 to assess the pre- and postoperative QoL, pain scores and health outcome measures was used. All the patient's demographics, duration of surgery, size of hernia, recurrence, morbidity and hospital stay were recorded. Data from 92 patients (87 males and 5 females) with a median age of 46years (range, 19-82years) was collected for the study (response rate of 92/121, 73%). A total of 58 patients (63%) had a unilateral and 34 patients (37%) a bilateral hernia repair, of which 6 (7%) were recurrent inguinal hernia. The mean operating time for a unilateral hernia was 36min (30-62), and that for a bilateral hernia was 59min (51-83). There were no conversions to open surgery out of the 92 patients included with the recorded morbidity of 7%. There were no early recurrences. Eighty-nine patients (98%) of patients were discharged in the first 24h after surgery. There was a significant statistical difference recorded in patients visual analogue pain score (VAS 0-10) before and after surgery (P<0.0001, Mann-Whitney U test). The physical, emotional, social and health components of the questionnaire were statistically significant pre- and postoperatively (P<0.001 Mann-Whitney U test). Groin hernia TEP repair with FS fixation did not have a detrimental effect on QoL and pain scores. In addition, the low early recurrence rate provided good evidence of the mesh fixation properties of FS. FS can therefore be continued to be recommended, as an alternative fixation method in laparoscopic groin hernia surgery.

Treatment of Hammertoe Deformity Using a One-piece Intramedullary Device: A Case Series

Hammertoes are common deformities that are often surgically treated using arthrodesis or arthroplasty of the proximal interphalangeal joint with percutaneous, temporary Kirschner wire fixation. However, percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation is associated with potential complications, including wire migration, breakage, and pin tract infection. Furthermore, the complications of pseudoarthrosis and nonunion are seen using this technique owing to a lack of rotational control of the Kirschner wire. Another drawback of this implant is the need for wire removal and the associated patient anxiety with this in-office procedure. In the present series of 7 toes in 3 patients, we describe an alternative method of hammertoe fixation using a permanently implanted, 1-piece intramedullary device used to stabilize the proximal interphalangeal interface. The potential advantages of this prosthesis include elimination of wire migration and breakage, enhanced control and stability of the digit, elimination of potential pin tract infection, and decreased patient anxiety since hardware removal is not required. The patients were followed up for approximately 1 year after the surgery, and no intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. The implant maintained proper clinical and radiographic alignment throughout the observation period, without implant failure or breakage. All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic appearance of their surgically corrected toes and were able to perform all activities of daily living without the use of assistive devices. Also, their postoperative pain and function were acceptable. The implant used in the patients described in the present report appears to be a viable alternative for the treatment of hammertoe.

Traumatic Pediatric Olecranon Injury

Elbow injuries make up to 3% to 4% of all emergency department presentations and are often difficult to diagnose. These injuries are often missed on radiographs because of the large cartilaginous component of the pediatric elbow resulting in malunion. Fractures around the elbow joint are one of the leading causes of litigation claim, and awareness of the pitfalls in diagnosis of these subtle injuries is necessary for a prompt diagnosis. Fracture of the olecranon epiphysis is rare and often being described around puberty and in association with osteogenesis imperfecta. Management using K-wire tension band fixation has been described in the past, which can lead to growth arrest in younger patients.We hereby present a missed rare sleeve-type open olecranon epiphyseal fracture in a young child, highlighting the pitfalls in the diagnosis of these injuries. This article also reviews various options to manage such a rare fracture and also suggests an alternative method of transosseous suture fixation with an excellent result.

CT evaluation of upper thoracic spine for surgical application of transarticular screw placement

Although pedicle screw fixation has been increasingly used in the upper thoracic spine in recent years, controversies exist about the safety and complications such as nerve or vascular intrusion associated with the technique. In this study, an alternative method of transarticular screw fixation was validated. Morphometric analysis was performed on computed tomography (CT) scans of the upper thoracic zygapophysial joints of C7, T1, T2 and T3 in 20 male and 20 female patients in the axial and sagittal planes. The degree of screw angulation was recorded in the sagittal and axial planes and the screw length was measured at the spinal level from C7 to T3. The smallest medial-lateral diameter and anterior-posterior diameter of IAP was found at T3 in the female patients and C7 in the male patients. The screw trajectory length ranged from 14.9 to 20.5mm in all patients. All the above measurements were significantly different between male and female patients at all levels (P<0.05). The mean value of screw trajectory angle was 19.3°-20.1° in the axial plane and 44.3°-45.7° in the sagittal plane. There was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) between male and female patients in the axial and sagittal angles. The morphometric data of C7-T3 zygapophysial joints indicate the suitable screw diameter and screw length for this technique. Transarticular screw fixation proved to be a potentially safe alternative to pedicle screw fixation in this region.

Histologic evaluation of absorbable and non-absorbable barrier coated mesh secured to the peritoneum with fibrin sealant in a New Zealand white rabbit model

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the histologic response to fibrin sealant (FS) as an alternative fixation method for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. One non-absorbable barrier mesh (Composix™) and three absorbable barrier meshes (Sepramesh™, Proceed™, and Parietex™ Composite) were used for the study, with uncoated macroporous polypropylene mesh (ProLite Ultra™) as the control. Three methods of fixation were used: #0-polypropylene suture+FS (ARTISS™, Baxter Healthcare Corp.), FS alone (ARTISS™), or tacks alone (n=10 for each group). Two pieces of mesh (of dimensions 4×4-cm) were secured intraperitoneally in 75 New Zealand white rabbits. After 8weeks, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained specimens were evaluated for host tissue response. Statistical significance (P<0.05) was determined using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) post hoc test. Composix™ with FS only showed significantly greater cellular infiltration than with suture+FS (P=0.0007), Proceed™ with FS only had significantly greater neovascularization than with suture+FS (P=0.0172), and ProLite Ultra™ with suture+FS had significantly greater neovascularization than with tacks only (P=0.046). Differences due to mesh type showed that Composix™ exhibited less extensive cellular infiltration (P≤0.0032), extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, and neovascularization, and demonstrated less inflammatory cells and more fibroblasts compared to the other meshes (P<0.05). FS did not have a significant histologic effect compared to tacks when utilized for the fixation of mesh to the peritoneum of New Zealand White rabbits. However, the mesh type did have a significant histologic effect. The permanent barrier mesh (Composix™) was associated with less histologic incorporation than absorbable barrier and macroporous meshes, as evidenced by lower levels of cellular infiltration, ECM deposition, and neovascularization, independent of the fixation method used.

Percutaneous Push-Through Gastrostomy by Applying a CT-Guided Gastropexy

Purpose To evaluate the feasibility and complications of percutaneous push-through gastrostomy via a computed tomography (CT)–guided gastropexy. Materials and Methods From January 2005 to March 2008, 14 patients in whom an oropharyngeal passage with an endoscope was impossible received a gastrostomy using the push-through technique. To attach the stomach against the abdominal wall, a CT-guided gastropexy was performed in all patients before the gastrostomy. The initial gastric tube was replaced with a short, low-profile gastric tube 2 weeks after the gastrostomy procedure. Patients were monitored for complications and survival for 6 months. Results The CT-guided dual gastropexy and percutaneous push-through gastrostomy was successfully inserted in all patients. Six months follow-up of the patients revealed only minor complications: one gastrostomy leakage and two local wounds. Conclusions CT-guided dual gastropexy combined with the push-type gastrostomy technique is practical and safe in patients in whom an oropharyngeal passage with an endoscope is impossible and represents an alternative method of gastric fixation for radiologically placed gastrostomy tubes.

Multicentric observational study of pain after the use of a self-gripping lightweight mesh

Investigation in the field of inguinal hernia surgery is now focused on postoperative pain. The extended use of lightweight meshes and alternative methods of fixation may play a relevant role in the reduction of pain. In this study, a new self-gripping lightweight polypropylene mesh is tested. A multicentric, observational study was scheduled to prospectively evaluate this new mesh. Ten centers agreed to participate. Only primary, type 1 or 2 uncomplicated hernias in adults were included. The mesh was placed as a Lichtenstein procedure without any fixation. A complete pain questionnaire was followed at 1week, and at 1, 3 and 6months postoperatively. The principal goal of the study was to evaluate maximum pain score at 6months. Pain was assessed by a visual analog scale. A total of 256 patients were operated. Mean operative time was 35.6min; 76.2% of patients were operated in an ambulatory setting. There were a few postoperative complications: 2 wound infections, 17 seromas, 21 hematomas, 6 orchitis. The incidence of acute pain was 27.3% at week 1 and 7.5% at month 1. The incidence of chronic pain was 3.6% at month 3 and 2.8% at month 6. No recurrences or long-term complications were observed. This self-gripping mesh can be used safely in type 1 and 2 primary, uncomplicated inguinal hernia with minimal morbidity and most patients under ambulatory setting. The registered incidence of chronic pain is lower than 3%.

Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of tibial fracture using self-navigated plate

This study aims to introduce a self-navigated plate, which is characterized by the presence of a groove at each end of the plate, in treating tibial fractures. The plate is inserted subperiosteally across the fracture line when the fracture is effectively reduced. A second plate of the same is then placed over the subcutaneous one and serves as a guide for percutaneous insertion of screws through the holes of subperiosteal plate into the bones to secure the fracture. Seven patients with tibial shaft fractures were treated by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) using this plate. The average operative time was 47 min, and the average fluoroscopy time was 19 s. All fractures healed from 3 to 6 months postoperatively, and excellent functional recovery was observed in all patients. In conclusion, the economical-friendly self-navigated plate is a good and effective alternative fixation method in treating tibia fractures by MIPO.

Biomechanical Study of SonicWeld Rx Pin in Cortical Bone Graft Layering Technique

The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the biomechanical values of the SonicWeld Rx pin system in comparison with titanium screws for use in onlay cortical bone grafting. In this study, 2.1-mm SonicWeld Rx pins and 1.5-mm titanium screws, measuring 7 mm in length, were used. Sawbone blocks were positioned to simulate an onlay bone graft, and the pins and screws were used to replicate bicortical fixation. Four groups were designated for vertical load application, and failure of the fixation was determined when stability was compromised. Study groups consisted of fixation material types and number of fixation appliances. A Bose Electroforce 3300 system was used to deliver the force and to obtain data. Comparison of SonicWeld Rx 1-pin fixation with titanium 1-screw fixation showed similar peak resistance loads. Average peak loading resistance for SonicWeld Rx 1-pin fixation was 65.54 N and that for titanium 1-screw fixation was 59.37 N, with no significant difference (P = .9698). Average peak strength of SonicWeld Rx 2-pin and titanium 2-screw fixations was 110.24 and 97.3 N, respectively, with no significant difference (P = .1041). Based on the measured biomechanical values, SonicWeld Rx fixation can withstand similar peak load forces compared with that of titanium screw fixation. The SonicWeld Rx fixation can be an alternative method of fixation for onlay bone grafting in dentoalveolar ridge augmentation.

Freeze substitution followed by low melting point wax embedding preserves histomorphology and allows protein and mRNA localization techniques

Fixation and embedding are major steps in tissue preservation for histological analysis. However, conventional fixatives like aldehyde-based solutions usually mask tissular epitopes preventing their immunolocalization. Alternative fixation methods used to avoid this drawback, such as cryopreservation, alcohol- or zinc salts-based fixatives do not efficiently preserve tissue and cell morphology. Likewise, paraffin and resin embedding, commonly used for thin sectioning, frequently damage epitopes due to the clearing agents and high temperatures needed along the embedding procedure. Alternatives like cryosectioning avoid the embedding steps but yield sections of poorer quality and are not suitable for all kinds of samples. To overcome these handicaps, we have developed a method that preserves histoarchitecture as well as tissue antigenic properties. This method, which we have named CryoWax, involves freeze substitution of the samples in isopentane and methanol, followed by embedding in low melting point polyester wax. CryoWax has proven efficient in obtaining thin sections of embryos and adult tissues from different species, including amphioxus, zebrafish, and mouse. CryoWax sections displayed optimal preservation of tissue morphology and were successfully immunostained for fixation- and temperature-sensitive antigens. Furthermore, CryoWax has been tested for in situ hybridization application, obtaining positive results.

Lamellar body ultrastructure revisited: high-pressure freezing and cryo-electron microscopy of vitreous sections

Lamellar bodies are the storage sites for lung surfactant within type II alveolar epithelial cells. The structure-function models of lamellar bodies are based on microscopic analyses of chemically fixed tissue. Despite available alternative fixation methods that are less prone to artifacts, such as cryofixation by high-pressure freezing, the nature of the lung, being mostly air filled, makes it difficult to take advantage of these improved methods. In this paper, we propose a new approach and show for the first time the ultrastructure of intracellular lamellar bodies based on cryo-electron microscopy of vitreous sections in the range of nanometer resolution. Thus, unspoiled by chemical fixation, dehydration and contrasting agents, a close to native structure is revealed. Our approach uses perfluorocarbon to substitute the air in the alveoli. Lung tissue was subsequently high-pressure frozen, cryosectioned and observed in a cryo-electron microscope. The lamellar bodies clearly show a tight lamellar morphology. The periodicity of these lamellae was 7.3nm. Lamellar bifurcations were observed in our cryosections. The technical approach described in this paper allows the examination of the native cellular ultrastructure of the surfactant system under near in vivo conditions, and therefore opens up prospectives for scrutinizing various theories of lamellar body biogenesis, exocytosis and recycling.

Tissue Glue in Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Retrospective Comparative Analysis

During the last two decades, there have been two revolutions in inguinal hernia repair surgery. First, the introduction of tension-free hernia repair by Liechtenstein in 1989 and then the application of laparoscopic surgery to the treatment of inguinal hernia in the early 1990s. In this context, the choice of mesh fixation methods being an integral part of this procedure remains a topic of arguments and discussions in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. There exist many methods of mesh fixation like polyglactin suture, titanium spiral tacks, nitinol anchors and fibrin glue. Fixation usually uses staples that can lead to nerve injury and chronic postoperative pain. Laparoscopic repairs are associated with a risk of chronic pain of upto 22.5%. The use of fibrin glue may represent an alternative method of mesh fixation preventing the risk of nerve injury.

Quick and Easy Fixation of Plant Tissues for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

INTRODUCTIONStandard fixation of samples for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) relies on toxic substances such as formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, and osmium tetroxide, and can take many hours to several days. This protocol describes an alternative fixation method with methanol, which is much less dangerous and very rapid. The results of this quick method are often as good as material fixed with osmium tetroxide.

Evaluation of intraperitoneal placement of absorbable and nonabsorbable barrier coated mesh secured with fibrin sealant in a New Zealand white rabbit model

This study aimed to evaluate the acute and chronic fixation strength of fibrin sealant (FS) as an alternative method of fixation for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR). Representative mesh types for LVHR included one nonabsorbable barrier mesh (Composix) and three absorbable barrier meshes (Sepramesh, Proceed, and Parietex composite). Macroporous polypropylene mesh (Prolite Ultra) served as the control mesh. Three methods of fixation were used, namely, 0-polypropylene suture+FS (ARTISS 4 IU), FS alone (ARTISS), and tacks alone, to secure 3×4-cm pieces of mesh (10 of each combination) to the peritoneal surface of New Zealand white rabbit abdominal wall. After 2 h of incubation at 37 °C, specimens underwent acute testing. Subsequently, a chronic phase was completed using the aforementioned fixation methods (10 of each combination), in which two 4×4-cm pieces of mesh were secured intraperitoneally in each of 75 New Zealand white rabbits, which survived 8 weeks until they were sacrificed. A transparent grid overlay was used to measure the mesh and adhesion area. Adhesion tenacity was characterized using the Garrard adhesion scale. In both the acute and chronic samples, a 3×3-cm area of mesh-tissue interface underwent lap shear testing at a rate of 0.42 mm/s using a tensiometer (Instron 5542). The maximum load sustained by the mesh-tissue construct was recorded as the acute fixation strength in newtons (N). Data are given as means±standard error of the mean. Statistical significance (p<0.05) was determined using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) posttest or a nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test (adhesion scores). The acute fixation strength was significantly greater for all the meshes secured with either suture+FS or tacks alone than for FS alone (p<0.001 for all comparisons). All the meshes except Proceed demonstrated greater acute fixation strength with suture+FS than with tacks alone (p≤0.016). Composix achieved greater acute fixation with suture+FS than all the other meshes (p≤0.022). Acute fixation with suture + FS was greater for Parietex Composite and ProLite Ultra than for Proceed (p≤0.015). When the animals were sacrificed, 48 of 50 meshes fixed with FS alone were insufficiently affixed to the abdominal wall, which may have resulted in hernia recurrence in a hernia model. The chronic fixation strength was greater for all the mesh types with either suture+FS or tacks only than with FS alone (p≤0.0005). The chronic fixation strength was greater with suture+FS than with tacks for Proceed and ProLite Ultra (p≤0.013). Neither mesh area nor adhesion tenacity differed significantly with any mesh/fixation method combination. In a chronic rabbit model of LVHR, fixation strength with FS alone was inadequate for selected nonabsorbable and absorbable barrier-coated meshes. The acute and chronic fixation strengths of suture+FS were equivalent or superior to the fixation strength of tacks alone. Using a combination of suture and FS for mesh fixation in LVHR may provide adequate fixation while decreasing postoperative pain due to spiral titanium tacks. In this preclinical series, mesh secured to the peritoneal surface by FS alone may have led to early recurrence.

Evaluation of acute fixation strength of absorbable and nonabsorbable barrier coated mesh secured with fibrin sealant

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the acute fixation strength of fibrin sealant as an alternative fixation method for laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) when utilized with absorbable and nonabsorbable barrier meshes. Representative mesh types for LVHR included one nonabsorbable barrier mesh (Bard Composix) and three absorbable barrier meshes (Sepramesh, Proceed, and Parietex Composite Mesh). Macroporous polypropylene mesh (Prolite Ultra) served as a control. An associated pilot study demonstrated that acute fixation was not achieved with C-Qur or Dualmesh, thus these meshes were not subjected to further analysis. Two fibrin sealants varying in thrombin concentration (TISSEEL 500 IU/ml or ARTISS 4 IU/ml) were each utilized to secure a 3 x 4 cm piece of mesh to the peritoneal surface of harvested abdominal wall from New Zealand white rabbits. Ten samples were prepared for each mesh and fibrin sealant combination. The resulting mesh-tissue interface (3 x 3 cm) underwent lap shear testing at a rate of 0.42 mm/s using a tensiometer (Instron 5542, Norwood, MA). The maximum load sustained by the construct was recorded as the acute fixation strength in units of Newtons (N). Data are given as means +/- SEM. Statistical significance (P < 0.05) was determined using a two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post-test. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the acute fixation strength achieved by ARTISS versus TISSEEL with Composix, Sepramesh, Proceed, and Parietex Composite Mesh. However, Prolite Ultra fixed with ARTISS (7.099 +/- 1.01 N) had a significantly higher tensile strength (P < 0.001) than Prolite Ultra fixed with TISSEEL (3.405 +/- 0.72 N). Among meshes fixed with TISSEEL, Parietex Composite (3.936 +/- 0.73 N) was significantly stronger than Sepramesh (1.760 +/- 0.33 N) (P < 0.05). Acute fixation strength is equivalent for TISSEEL and ARTISS fibrin sealants for selected nonabsorbable (Composix) and absorbable barrier-coated (Sepramesh, Proceed, and Parietex Composite Mesh) meshes. Previous evaluations in this model indicated fibrin sealant alone did not appear to be a suitable method of fixation with C-Qur or DualMesh against the peritoneum. Long-term evaluation is needed to evaluate the efficacy of this method of fixation using absorbable and nonabsorbable barrier-coated meshes in a model of LVHR.

Mesh fixation in laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernioplasty by percutaneous subcutaneous suture technique

Aim: The method of mesh fixation remains an issue of argument in laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. Laparoscopic staplers, bioactive tissue glues and tacks had been used by various institutions for the same purpose. In the present article, we describe the percutaneous subcutaneous suture technique, which is an inexpensive method of mesh fixation in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.Methods: We carried out a retrospective case series review of cases with laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair carried out in Pok Oi Hospital, Hong Kong from 19 November 2008 to 4 June 2009. Mesh fixation by percutaneous subcutaneous suture technique was carried out for patients with large hernial defects (≥ 4 cm), bilateral or recurrent hernias.Results: One out of 31 hernioplasties (3.2%) carried out with mesh fixation was complicated by recurrence up to 3 months of median follow up.Conclusion: We describe our alternative method of mesh fixation by percutaneous subcutaneous suture technique in laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. However, further clinical studies are required to elaborate the benefits and long‐term results of this method.