Surgical mesh for treatment of non-primary ventral hernias

Status:

In progress

Technology type:

Diagnostic

Decision:

Selected

Prioritisation programme:

HealthTech

Rationale:

TBC

Process:

HTE

Description:

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. This can cause a visible bulge and sometimes pain or discomfort, especially during movement and straining, and may get worse over time if left untreated. Hernia repairs are among the most frequently performed surgeries, with over 100,000 procedures carried out annually in the UK and Ireland (British Hernia Society). Ventral hernias are one of the most common types of hernia and occur when tissue or an organ pushes through the abdominal wall. Non-primary ventral hernias are those that do not develop because of natural weaknesses in the abdominal wall, such as following previous abdominal surgery (incisional hernia). Some non-primary hernia may be considered complex because of their size, location, contamination or patient-related factors. Complex hernia repair may be associated with higher surgical risk and postoperative complications. Surgical mesh is used in non-primary hernia repair to reinforce weak tissue and lower recurrence rates. When implanted, the mesh acts as a support structure, promoting tissue ingrowth that integrates it into the body’s internal scar tissue, providing long-term structural support. There are different types of surgical mesh available, and features of mesh such as porosity, material weight and absorbability can influence the performance of mesh for integrating and reducing risk of complications such as chronic pain, adhesions, or erosion into nearby organs. Mesh design has advanced over time, with adjustments in weight, pore size, and material composition leading to a wide variety of available options.

Provisional Schedule

Note - Note added to the project documents:

10 April 2026

Scoping workshop:

11 May 2026

Scope published:

26 May 2026

Project Team

Project lead

Catherine Pank

Email enquiries

If you have any queries please email HealthTech2@nice.org.uk

Stakeholders

External assessment group

The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (NuTH)

Timeline

Key events during the development of the guidance:

For further information on our processes and methods, please see our HealthTech programme manual.