What Happens in a Mesh Implant Erosion?
WHAT IS A MESH IMPLANT?
It is basically a net-like implant that is placed inside a woman’s pelvis. This is done as a surgical treatment for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP). This is ideally done through a sterile technique by trained surgeons.
In some cases, the rule of sterility is breached and the implantation technique contributes to adverse complications that put patient’s lives at risk. One such complication is Erosion.
DEFINING EROSION
Erosion is a serious complication that arises from mesh implantation. This happens when the mesh slowly shifts from its original position and moves through the pelvic cavity and, sometimes, anchors itself into the surrounding tissues. In some instances, the eroded mesh embeds itself deeply into the neighboring organs that multiple surgeries are required to completely remove it.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A MESH EROSION?
Here are some symptoms that can alarm a post mesh surgery patient for a possible mesh erosion:
- Painful surgical site
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Painful urination
- Frequent urinary infections
- Unexplained bleeding
- Spasms in the pelvic area
- Pus-like vaginal discharges
- Urinary incontinence
If a patient experiences any of these symptoms, it is highly advised to consult a physician immediately about it.
WHAT OTHER COMPLICATIONS CAN ARISE FROM AN ERODED MESH?
An erosion can lead to other potentially harmful complications such as:
- Damage to surrounding pelvic organs such as the bladder, intestines and the uterus.
- Pelvic organ perforation. An example of which is a recto-vaginal fistula; a hole that passes from the vaginal cavity into the rectum caused by the eroded mesh implant.
- Debilitating pain
- Abscess formation
HOW IS EROSION TREATED?
More often than not, the patient will be required to undergo surgery to remove a mesh. Multiple surgeries are done to completely remove the mesh because the procedure is a complicated process. The deeply-embedded mesh needs to be removed while virtually doing no harm to the surrounding organs or tissues than necessary.
A mesh implant erosion can be a complete nightmare. Consult a medical specialist if at any point you feel you are having a mesh implant complication. Lawsuits have also been filed by patients against manufacturers due to the complications brought about by the mesh implant. The investigation may require your medical records be cross-examined to shed light on the dilemma.
It is best to always have an informed and professional advice from a doctor regarding any surgery you are advised to undergo, mesh implant or not. If it helps, a second opinion should be sought because, in health, you can never be too careful.