A Short History of Transvaginal Mesh
Over sixty years ago, surgical mesh was routinely used during hernia repair surgeries. By the 1970’s American gynecologists saw the potential in using this same type of mesh to repair pelvic organ prolapse. Mesh was used in an “off-label” fashion by surgeons for decades during pelvic organ prolapse and by the mid-90’s it was becoming more and more common to use the same mesh used in hernia surgeries to treat SUI. Eventually, in 1996, the FDA approved surgical mesh specifically for use in stress urinary incontinence surgeries and in 2002 followed suit by approving surgical mesh specifically for the repair of pelvic organ prolapse. Over time surgical mesh has seen an evolution in the manner in which it is used as well as the various types of surgical mesh used.
Possible Complications from Transvaginal Mesh
Pelvic organ prolapse can occur in women whose pelvic or vaginal walls have been stretched over the years from childbirth, menopause or as a result of a hysterectomy. When the ligaments have been stretched beyond their capacity to “bounce back,” the uterus begins pressing on the bladder, resulting in incontinence issues which can be embarrassing and inconvenient and pelvic organ prolapse. Implanted mesh produces scar tissue; however surgeons have no ability to control the extent of that scar tissue. Following the surgical procedure scars can contract, resulting in tension and causing chronic and severe pain.
Infections are one of the potential complications of transvaginal mesh surgery as well as excessive bleeding, perforation of surrounding organs, urinary difficulties and pain during intercourse. Vaginal mesh erosion happens when the mesh, rather than binding, works its way through the vaginal wall. In the case of mesh erosion, revision surgery will be necessary in order to correct the implant damage. Many cases of mesh erosion can require more than one surgical procedure in order to repair the damage although in some instances only the exposed portion is removed.
Mesh contraction can lead to shortening and tightening of the vagina, leading to pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. Some women experience constant, relentless pain from mesh contraction and can in turn suffer emotional damage as well. Others who have undergone pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence surgery using mesh can end up with a blood infection or kidney, bladder or urinary tract infection.
Without a Recall in Sight, Can Transvaginal Mesh Attorneys Help?
Even though there are now thousands of documented injuries due to surgical mesh used in pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence surgical procedures, the FDA is resisting recalling mesh used for these applications, believing a recall is too severe. One specific trial found a 15.6% erosion rate when the surgical mesh was used in a transvaginal application after a mere three months. The FDA is likely to ask for additional studies or labeling changes rather than issuing a recall until there is definitive proof of whether the benefits of transvaginal mesh outweigh the risks. Because the adverse symptoms of transvaginal mesh placement can be serious and life-altering, many women have joined in the litigation against mesh manufacturers who may have taken a few safety shortcuts in their efforts to increase their revenues. Speaking to an experienced legal professional can ensure women understand all the options available to them.