Use of Mesh in Hiatal Hernia Repair and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease - Pro

Net augmentation in surgical care of hiatus hernias has many advantages, but is still controversial. Optimal surgical treatment of symptomatic hiatus hernia is to provide long-term correction of the malposition of the stomach and other organs that have been displaced in the thorax, as well as reducing the necessity of risky reoperations. In order to assess the role of net augmentation in repair of the hiatus here, the benefit in the form of the avoidance of symptomatic recurrence and reoperations must be balanced against the risk of net-associated complications. In the present review article, we present a detailed evaluation of current evidence on net augmentation. We conclude that net augmentation in large hernias (> 5 cm), with or without paraesophageal involvement, should be routinely employed, as this reduces the risk of recurrence and the need for complex reoperations with a high risk of complications. Net-associated complications are rare and can largely be avoided with the correct implantation technique and proper net materials. The level of evidence could be improved if more validated register and randomised controlled studies were performed.