Artificial mesh fixation via the five-point anchoring technique for functional reconstruction of soft tissue defects after sacral tumor resection: A preliminary clinical evaluation.

INTRODUCTION: En-bloc resection of sacral tumors frequently leads to soft tissue defects and pelvic floor dysfunction, yet standardized mesh fixation protocols and functional outcome evaluations remain scarce. This study introduced a standardized five-point anchoring technique for mesh fixation after sacral tumor resection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective controlled study included 45 patients who underwent en-bloc resection of sacral tumors between March 2020 and January 2024 in our department. Patients were grouped based on whether they underwent mesh reconstruction. In the mesh group, reconstruction used the five-point anchoring technique, with the mesh anchored to the inferior margin of the bilateral sacroiliac joints, the ligamentous attachments of the bilateral ischial spines, and the anococcygeal ligament. Perioperative parameters and complications were recorded. Pelvic floor function was assessed using the Motor, Urinary, and Defecation (MUD) scoring system. RESULTS: The mesh group had significantly better perioperative outcomes and lower complications. The incidence of sacral hernia was 0% in the mesh group compared with 40.9% in the non-mesh group (P = 0.002). Total MUD score was higher in the mesh group (20.22 ± 2.83 vs. 17.59 ± 3.62, P = 0.01), with defecation showing the greatest improvement (6.70 ± 1.52 vs. 4.91 ± 1.82, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The five-point anchoring technique with artificial mesh is a safe and effective treatment approach after sacral tumor resection, achieving both soft tissue repair and functional pelvic floor reconstruction.