Mesh Plug Migration Into the Ileum 11 Years After Open Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review

Introduction: A mesh plug is used worldwide for tension-free repair of an inguinal hernia. This procedure is relatively quick, is easy to learn, has a low recurrence rate, has few complications, and offers rapid recovery; however, complications specific to the mesh plug are infrequently reported. Case presentation: We present a rare case of a 70-year-old man admitted to our hospital with right lower abdominal pain and groin swelling 11 years after open inguinal hernia repair using a mesh plug. Abdominal computed tomography showed a subcutaneous abscess in the right inguinal region and a thickened ileum wall. We diagnosed that a mesh plug had penetrated into the ileum wall, resulting in an abscess. The emergency operation revealed the mesh plug migration into the ileum, and removal of the mesh plug and partial resection of the ileum were performed. At 9 months after operation, there has been no recurrence of the hernia. Conclusion: Although rare, migration of the mesh plug should be considered in patients who have undergone inguinal hernia repair and have symptoms of acute abdominal pain, particularly when there is no previous history of abdominal surgery.