Importance

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Abstract

A hernia patch has a first layer of inert synthetic mesh material selectively sized and shaped to extend across and beyond a hernia. A second layer of inert synthetic mesh material overlies the first layer to create a generally planar configuration for the patch. The first and second layers are joined together by a seam which defines a periphery of a pouch between the layers. One of the layers has a border which extends beyond the seam and which has a free outer edge. A plurality of border slits extend from the outer edge through the border substantially to the seam. An access slit is formed in one of the layers for insertion of a finger of a surgeon into the pouch to allow the surgeon to deform the planar configuration of the patch to facilitate insertion of the patch into the patient and to position the patch across the hernia. A resilient monofilament loop is located within and surrounds the pouch at the seam for urging the patch to conform to the generally planar configuration across the hernia as the surgeon withdraws his or her finger.

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First Claim