Mesh Complications

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Trinity Health provides diagnosis and treatment options for mesh complications, focusing on minimally invasive techniques.

What is a mesh complication?

Many complications related to hernia repair with surgical mesh reported to the FDA have been associated with recalled mesh products that are no longer on the market. Pain, infection, recurrence, adhesion, obstruction and perforation are the most common complications associated with recalled mesh.

Symptoms

Erosion or protrusion of the mesh from the soft tissues
Pain, including pain with intercourse
Infections in the area of the mesh
Urinary tract problems
Bleeding from the mesh site

Diagnosis

Your doctor will do a thorough physical pelvic exam to find any potential damage caused by implanted mesh. Additional tests may include:

Ultrasound
Cystography (a bladder exam performed by a radiologist)
Colonoscopy (a procedure to examine the rectum and colon)
Blood, urine and stool tests

Treatment

After mesh failure is confirmed, the least invasive treatment is usually attempted first. The treatment options can vary greatly depending on the location and severity of the damage:

Estrogen cream to promote healing
Trimming exposed vaginal mesh
Removal of scar tissue if necessary
Partial or complete removal of the mesh