Purpose: To investigate the effect of mesh fixation devices on the formation of intra-abdominal adhesions.
Materials and Methods: Fourteen New Zealand rabbits were used. In seven animals, nickel-titanium
(nitinol) anchors (group 1) and titanium tacks (group 2) were applied by laparoscopy on the
right and left sides of the abdomen, respectively. In the remaining seven rabbits, the same devices
were applied on prosthetic meshes (groups 3 and 4, respectively). On day 30, the rabbits were sacrificed
and macroscopic adhesion scoring was performed. All the specimens were assessed by scanning
electron microscopy (SEM).
Results: All parameters of adhesion except extension were significantly higher in group 4 than
group 3 (P < 0.05). Comparisons of group 1 vs. group 2 were not statistically significant (P > 0.05).
All the comparisons between a nonmesh group and a mesh group resulted in significant differences.
SEM results revealed that the mesothelial cell layer and connective tissue intensively covered the
tacks in group 2 whereas no similar findings were observed in group 1. Comparable appearances
were encountered in groups 3 and 4.
Conclusion: The nitinol anchor is associated with an acceptable level of adhesion formation and
its intraperitoneal use can be considered safe in this regard.
