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Absorbable Synthetic Mesh

Absorbable synthetic meshes (polyglactin/Vicryl, polyglycolic acid, polydioxanone) have been explored as alternatives to permanent polypropylene for urogynecologic repair. They are designed to provide short-term mechanical support while the patient's own fibrous tissue consolidates, then resorb.

Rationale​

  • Avoid the long-term complications of permanent synthetic mesh (exposure, chronic pain, infection)
  • Short-term scaffold during tissue healing
  • Theoretical advantage in fields where permanent mesh is contraindicated (contamination, prior exposure)

Evidence​

Randomized data show no clear advantage over native tissue repair at 2-year follow-up for pelvic organ prolapse.[1] Absorbable mesh has not established a durable role in SUI or POP surgery.

Current Use​

Largely supplanted by:

  • Native-tissue repair (when mesh avoidance is the goal)
  • Permanent polypropylene mesh (when mesh augmentation is desired)
  • Autologous rectus fascia (when permanent support with biological material is desired)

References​

1. Yeung E, Baessler K, Christmann-Schmid C, et al. Transvaginal Mesh or Grafts or Native Tissue Repair for Vaginal Prolapse. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2024;3:CD012079. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD012079.pub2

See also: Polypropylene Mesh.