Vaginal Mesh Implants

Synthetic Vaginal Mesh

Typically made out of polypropylene, a synthetic absorptive cloth-like material, a transvaginal mesh is implanted in a woman’s vaginal wall when she experiences severe pelvic organ prolapse (POP). POP occurs typically after strained childbirth when the vaginal walls and muscles are stretched and weakened and then fail to completely heal afterward.  The weakened support causes surrounding organs to fall or slip out of place. Surgery is one of the last options when less invasive treatments fail to correct the issue.

How the Vaginal Mesh is Implanted

After administering the anesthetic, the surgeon will enter via the vaginal opening and begin creating an incision where the mesh will be implanted. Depending on the condition, there are four ways a mesh may be installed:

  • If a bladder prolapse is the issue (cystocele), the bladder will be moved upward, back toward its original position and the doctor will secure the tissue connecting the vagina and bladder providing the two shared support.
  • A rectal prolapse (rectocele) will result in the rectum and vagina becoming secured together to assure the organ does not move again.
  • The uterin prolapse procedure typically only occurs if the patient is post-menopausal or does not plan to have any more children, as the surgeon will perform a hysterectomy to correct the uterin prolapse.
  • Vaginal vault prolapse surgery is located high in the vagina and may be operated via the abdomen rather than the vaginal opening. The vagina becomes attached to the tailbone to suspend the vagina in case of serious vaginal vault prolapse.

Once the surgery is complete, the patient will need to be sure to take antibiotics to prevent infection and a catheter will be set in place to assure drainage of urine and excess blood for one to two days. The body’s tissue will heal within and around the mesh after two to three weeks of recovery.

If you experience severe pain after the recovery period, you may be at risk of organ perforation or mesh erosion. Express your concerns to your doctor immediately to prevent further damage to your organs and tissues.

How it Works

The synthetic mesh is a permanent implant and will remain within the vaginal wall until removed surgically. Once the mesh is in place, the tissue surrounding the material will begin healing around and on top of the weave, integrating it into the organs. Sutures keep the mesh stable during this process and dissolve after two or three weeks. The body uses the mesh implant as a framework for strengthening the wall of the organ and thus provides better support so the organs no longer shift.

Possible Complications

There is danger with any surgery, but because the vaginal mesh implant has had a history of uncommon adverse effects, patients should research the device before deciding upon the best option for treatment. If you have a vaginal mesh implant, discuss with your doctor what to do if you experience any of the following:

  • Stress urinary incontinence
  • Pain or discomfort
  • Infection
  • Mesh exposure
  • Mesh erosion
  • Mesh shrinkage
  • Pain during sexual intercourse

The Gallagher Law Firm is involved in transvaginal mesh lawsuits against companies distributing transvaginal mesh devices that cause serious harm to its patients. If you would like to discuss your legal options or need representation call (888) 222-7052 or Contact us online.