ABSTRACT
This chapter presents results of experimental research and clinical trials of mesh implants modified with a Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) coating, produced at the Institute of Biophysics Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Most Russian PHA researchers suffer polymer shortage, while polymer meshes are simple to prepare and require very small amounts of the polymer. The use of meshes prevents tissue tension, somewhat simplifies the surgery, reduces intra-operative trauma incidence, decreases pain in the early postoperative period, shortens the hospital stay, reduces the rehabilitation period, decreases the incidence of recurrent hernias, and improves the patients’ quality of life. Lightweight meshes, hyaluronic acid-based implants, and meshes coated with biocompatible materials have been developed to enhance biocompatibility of the implants. The major factors are the response of the tissues of the anterior abdominal wall to the implant and its biocompatibility. Surgeons commonly use meshes to close various hernias. Meshes are fabricated from non-resorbable materials, absorbable materials and combinations thereof.
