Surgical mesh has been used to repair hernias for almost 60 years. In the 1970’s, surgeons began using the mesh designed for hernia repairs to reinforce the vagina and repair pelvic organ prolapse. In 2002, the FDA first approved a surgical mesh to be used specifically for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Now the FDA is warning that transvaginal mesh implants may cause serious risks. In the last three years, the FDA has received 2874 reports of adverse effects including:
Protrusion or erosion of the mesh from vaginal tissue
Pain
Infection
Bleeding
Urinary tract problems
Organ damage
One study found that as many as ten percent of women who receive transvaginal mesh implants experience mesh erosion in the first year after surgery. The risk increased with a vaginal incision (compared to an abdominal incision), hysterectomy, smoking and age. Most complications occurred at least one month after surgery. The usual treatment is removal of the mesh through surgery. In many cases, multiple surgeries are required. If you have had transvaginal mesh surgery, it is important that you see your gynecologist for routine check-ups. Let any new doctor know that you have a mesh implant. Notify your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms including persistent vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. If you have suffered mesh erosion after transvaginal mesh implant surgery, you may have a Texas dangerous medical device claim. Dallas medical device injury attorney Kay Van Wey helps those injury victims receive compensation and accountability for their injuries through Texas vaginal mesh lawsuits. To learn more, contact Van Wey Law at 800-489-5082 today.