Marlex Mesh, a New Plastic Mesh for Replacing Tissue Defects

Abstract

The results of our experimental studies on the use of Marlex mesh to repair tissue defects in the abdominal wall, chest wall, and diaphragm of dogs have been reported by us.^2,3We found that this monofilament mesh was superior to Teflon fabric as a surgical prosthesis because of more constant and uniform replacement by fibrous tissue. It was noted that the fibrous tissue replacement was limited to a uniform layer 3 to 4 mm. in thickness, which was well "bonded" to surrounding fascia and quite pliable. There was no increase in the thickness of this fibrous tissue replacement beyond six weeks. Examination of the recovered graft (by acid digestion of tissues) after six months' implantation showed no fragmentation and no decrease in tensile strength of the mesh. Infection studies in dogs showed that in the presence of purulent infection granulation tissue would grow through the mesh and wounds would