Feasibility and safety of biologic OviTex mesh in ventral mesh rectopexy: a prospective pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Minimal-invasive ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) is a widely accepted treatment for patients suffering from rectal prolapse. The type of mesh used in VMR remains a subject of debate. Currently, the most applied implant is a polypropylene mesh. The aim of the present pilot study was to determine the ease of use, feasibility, and safety of OviTex PGA mesh, a biologic mesh, in VMR.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent VMR for internal or external rectal prolapse were included in a prospective non-randomised pilot study in two centers. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation (90 days and 6 months) with a clinical examination and questionnaire regarding pelvic floor symptoms was performed. The primary objectives were to monitor the perioperative technical end result and the postoperative complication rate.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients underwent VMR with an OviTex PGA implant. All operations were completed successfully and without intraoperative complications. The mean ODS and FISI score was significantly decreased after 6-months follow-up. No graft-related complications (GRC) occurred. Two patients developed a recurrent prolapse within 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Robotic correction of rectal prolapse using an OviTex mesh is a safe, minimally invasive, technically feasible treatment. However, further research is warranted to evaluate the potential added value of OviTex compared to polypropylene mesh on a larger scale. Long-term follow-up is essential to assess the durability of the procedure and monitor the occurrence of any new symptoms.