In April 2013, Dr. Pacella was recently featured in the U-T San Diego as an expert providing instruction and advice on biologic mesh technology in abdominal wall reconstruction and complex hernia repair. Every year, approximately one million patients undergo midline incision surgeries, about 10% of which later result in a hernia due to weakened muscle and tendon connections. An extensive follow-up surgery is usually required to correct the deformity. In standard hernia repair techniques with prosthetic mesh, many patients run the risk of further damage including infection, pain or recurrence of the hernia. Dr. Pacella has been an advocate of utilizing advanced repair techniques and newly developed biologic mesh, which not only restores natural muscle connections, but also dramatically decreases complications. While very few surgeons in the nation utilize this reconstructive surgical option, Dr. Pacella performs the procedure locally in San Diego County.
