Modeling of the fascia-mesh system and sensitivity analysis of a junction force after a laparoscopic ventral hernia repair

In the paper, a simple model of the fascia-mesh system is considered to assess the junction force after a laparoscopic hernia repair. The aim of this study is to develop a cable model of the system in order to find the junction force and to distinguish the most important parameters affecting the system junction force. The cable is subjected to a pressure in the abdominal cavity and displacements of the cable edges caused by bends of the patient body. The attention is paid to the junction force sensitivity analysis with respect to initial tension of the mesh, its length and elasticity as well as fascia flexibility. All these parameters are crucial for ventral hernia repair safety. Finally, some concluding remarks important for practicing surgeons and for further more advanced study using two dimensional fascia-mesh models are presented.