Nondermatomal somatosensory deficits in chronic pain patients: are they really hysterical?

Patients with chronic pain disorders frequently show nondermatomal somatosensory deficits (NDSDs) that are considered to be functional. Typically, NDSDs show quadratomal or hemibody distribution ipsilateral to the areas of chronic pain. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition and the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, such functional somatosensory deficits are classified in the chapter "conversion disorder.

Polyurethane-covered dacron mesh versus polytetrafluoroethylene DualMesh for intraperitoneal hernia repair in rats.

Purpose: Abdominal hernia repair using the intraperitoneal implantation of a prosthesis requires mesh with impervious properties, such as expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). A newly developed polyurethane-covered polyester mesh with impervious properties has recently been introduced as a less expensive alternative to PTFE, and we compare these materials herein.

Methods: The adhesion formation and stability of intraperitoneal abdominal hernia repairs with DualMesh (macroporous ePTFE mesh with a microporous component) and PolyesterComposite (the newly developed polyurethane-covered Dacron mesh) were compared in a rat model.

Trevira mesh: a promising new implant for the treatment of abdominal hernias.

Background: Trevira (polyethylene terephthalate) has been in clinical use for more than 20 years, serving as implant material with minimal foreign body reaction for the replacement of the cruciate ligaments of the knee. An animal (pig) trial was performed to ascertain whether a Trevira mesh offers any advantages over currently employed meshes like Prolene for abdominal hernia repair.

Methods: In 12 mini-pigs 10 x 10 cm of the musculofascial abdominal layer was resected preserving the peritoneum.