Sheep and rabbit genital tracts and abdominal walls as an implantation model for the study of surgical mesh

Abstract

Aim: In order to evaluate the biocompatible and biomechanical properties of surgical mesh, suitable animal models are required. This paper assesses the sheep and rabbit genital tracts as potential models for direct vaginal implantation of mesh for use in pelvic floor surgery. Methods: Sheep and rabbits were implanted with surgical mesh in the abdominal wall and genital tract. After 12 weeks, the implantation sites were assessed and the mesh was explanted for histological review. Results: Technical aspects of vaginal surgery on the sheep and rabbits are described. Implantation of mesh was achievable in both the sheep and rabbit genital tracts. Following 12 weeks of mesh implantation, there was a high rate of mesh erosion through both the sheep and rabbit vaginal epithelium. Conclusions: Vaginal mesh erosion was present in both the sheep and rabbit genital tract model. The properties of sheep and rabbit vaginal epithelium require further evaluation to determine their comparability to human vaginal epithelium.