A scanning electron microscopical study of the two sides of polypropylene mesh (Marlex®) and PTFE (Gore Tex®) mesh 2 years after complete abdominal wall reconstruction. A study of 15 cases

Our results showed, for the first time in vivo, that there is an impressive stability of the deep side of PTFE ultra structure after implantation, a significant difference of the two sides of PTFE at the ultrastructural level and the creation of an intermediate tissue between the two meshes. In contrast, the polypropylene invariably gave rise to adhesions and colonisation by the surrounding tissues. Findings confirmed that the structure and porosity of a biomaterial play a key role in the appearance of adhesions and their consistency.