An implant insertion system includes an implant, such as a surgical mesh, having a first end and a second end, a first insertion aid spaced from and connected with the first end of the implant via a first link, such as a first flexible filament, and a second insertion aid spaced from and connected with the second end of the implant via a second link, such as a second flexible filament. The system includes an insertion device for implanting the implant in tissue. The insertion device has a handle at a proximal end thereof, an actuator mounted on the handle, a shaft extending from a distal end of the handle toward a distal end of the insertion device, and a cutting element disposed within the shaft. The shaft has an outer wall including an opening that is adapted to receive the first and second insertion aids for connecting the implant with the insertion device. The actuator is engageable for moving the cutting element from a first position to a second position for severing one of the links for breaking the connection between one of the first and second insertion aids and the surgical implant.
