An implantable prosthesis is provided for repairing or augmenting anatomical
weaknesses
or defects, and is particularly suitable for the repair of soft tissue and muscle
wall openings. The prosthesis includes a repair fabric with a generally triangular-shaped
body and two tails extending outward from the base of the triangular body. The
tails may be rounded to provide the repair fabric with a generally heart-shaped
configuration. An opening is provided along the base of the body and between the
two tails for receiving a tube-like structure, such as the esophagus. The prosthesis
may include a layer of fabric that is constructed and arranged to allow tissue
ingrowth and is susceptible to erosion into and the formation of adhesions with
tissue and organs. One or more regions of the prosthesis may be configured to inhibit
erosion into and/or the formation of adhesions with tissue and organs. The prosthesis
may include an edge barrier that is attached to the tails and overlies a portion
of the opening. A portion of the edge barrier may be folded into the opening to
isolate the tube-like structure from an edge of the opening.