Understanding Vaginal Mesh Surgery

Vaginal mesh surgery, also known as transvaginal mesh surgery, is a medical procedure used to treat two common conditions affecting women.

Vaginal mesh is used to treat:

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: POP is a condition where the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, bulge or protrude into the vaginal wall due to weakened or damaged muscles and tissues. This issue can occur after childbirth or menopause or with age.
• Stress Urinary Incontinence: SUI is a type of urine leakage that occurs when activities like sneezing, coughing, laughing, exercising, lifting, or engaging in sexual intercourse put pressure on the bladder. It is a common condition that affects many women and can occur because of factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or pelvic surgery.

Vaginal mesh surgery involves surgically inserting a transvaginal mesh implant into the vaginal wall to provide support and reinforcement to the weakened or damaged tissues.

The medical device is intended to act as a scaffold for new tissue growth, providing additional strength and support to the pelvic organs.

Vaginal mesh surgery has been considered an effective treatment for women experiencing these issues.

While the medical procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive, there are still potential complications and risks associated with using surgical mesh devices.

Common Complications of Vaginal Mesh Implants and Surgery

Vaginal mesh implants, introduced as a treatment for certain pelvic conditions, have been associated with a range of unforeseen consequences, affecting numerous patients who underwent this medical procedure.

These complications have varied in severity and duration, often requiring additional medical interventions, including further surgeries, to address the arising health concerns.

The impact of these issues extends beyond physical health, often affecting emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life for those affected.

The widespread nature of these complications has led to significant legal actions and a reevaluation of the safety and efficacy of vaginal mesh implants in the medical community.

Additionally, the need for repeated medical attention and the long-term nature of some of these health issues have prompted ongoing monitoring and research into the safety of these medical devices.

Vaginal mesh complications and injuries include:

• Vaginal mesh erosion
• Vaginal mesh infection
• Severe pain and discomfort
• Vaginal scarring and bleeding
• Organ and tissue perforation
• Recurrent POP and SUI
• Urinary incontinence
• Dyspareunia
• Emotional and psychological impacts

Vaginal Mesh Erosion

Vaginal mesh erosion occurs when the pelvic mesh implant protrudes through the vaginal wall, leading to discomfort, pain, and potential infections.

Patients may experience symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, painful intercourse, abnormal vaginal discharge, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

The patient may require surgical intervention to remove the eroded mesh, which can be challenging and painful.

Vaginal Mesh Infection

Vaginal mesh infection is another serious complication that can arise post-surgery.

Infections can occur due to bacteria or a foreign body (in this case, the mesh implant) in the body.

Symptoms may include fever, pain, swelling, redness, and discharge at the surgical site.

Infection management usually involves antibiotics, and severe cases may require mesh removal.

Severe Pain and Discomfort

Some women who have undergone vaginal mesh surgery report severe and chronic pain that can significantly affect their quality of life.

The pelvic organs, including the vagina, bladder, and rectum, are highly sensitive, and any damage or irritation to these areas can cause intense pain.

In some cases, the pain may be constant and require long-term medication management or even additional surgical procedures.

Vaginal Scarring and Bleeding

Vaginal scarring and bleeding are also potential complications of vaginal mesh surgery.

The transvaginal mesh implant can damage nearby organs and tissues, leading to internal scarring and bleeding.

This complication can cause severe pain and discomfort, requiring surgical intervention to address the issue.

Organ and Tissue Perforation

In rare cases, vaginal mesh surgery can lead to organ and tissue perforation when the vaginal mesh implant punctures or tears nearby organs or tissues during or after the surgical procedure.

Organ and tissue damage can cause severe pain, infections, and other complications that may require reconstructive surgery to repair.

Recurring POP and SUI Symptoms

Despite undergoing vaginal mesh surgery, some women have reported recurring POP and SUI symptoms.

This recurrence may be due to surgical mesh failure, anatomical issues, or other factors.

Patients may require additional surgeries to address the issue, leading to further medical expenses and potential complications.

Urinary Problems

Some patients have reported experiencing urinary problems after undergoing vaginal mesh surgery.

These issues can include frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or urine retention.

In some cases, the bladder may be compressed by the transvaginal mesh implant, causing these complications.

Dyspareunia

Some women who have undergone vaginal mesh surgery have also reported experiencing dyspareunia or pain during sexual intercourse.

The vaginal mesh implant may erode or cause damage to nearby nerves, muscles, or tissues, leading to pain and discomfort during sexual activity.

This condition can affect a person’s overall sexual function, relationships, and quality of life.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Aside from the physical complications, vaginal mesh surgery can also have a significant impact on a person’s emotional and psychological well-being.

Dealing with chronic pain, sexual dysfunction, low self-esteem, and body image issues can take a toll on a person’s mental health.

Many women who have undergone vaginal mesh surgery have reported feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger related to their experiences.

Treatment Options for Vaginal Mesh Complications

Treatment options for vaginal mesh complications are tailored to each individual’s specific condition and the nature of their complications.

The choice of treatment largely depends on factors such as the type and severity of the complications, the patient’s overall health, and the recommendations of healthcare professionals.

Here are some common treatment approaches:

1. Surgical Intervention: In cases where complications like mesh erosion or organ perforation occur, surgical removal or revision of the mesh may be necessary. These procedures can range from partial removal of the mesh to more extensive surgeries for complete extraction, especially in cases where the mesh has integrated extensively with the surrounding tissues.
2. Medication Management: For infections or chronic pain resulting from the mesh implant, doctors may prescribe antibiotics, pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory drugs. Medication can help manage symptoms and control infections related to the mesh.
3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can be beneficial, especially for strengthening pelvic floor muscles and alleviating certain types of pain and discomfort. Specialized pelvic floor physical therapists can provide exercises and techniques to improve pelvic health and relieve symptoms.
4. Lifestyle Modifications: Simple changes in daily activities or habits can sometimes alleviate symptoms. This could include dietary adjustments, bladder training, or avoidance of certain physical activities that exacerbate symptoms.
5. Pain Management Programs: For chronic pain, patients might be referred to pain management specialists. These programs often involve a multidisciplinary approach, including medication, physical therapy, and psychological support to help manage pain.
6. Counseling and Support: Dealing with complications from vaginal mesh can be emotionally taxing. Mental health support, whether through counseling, support groups, or therapy, can be an important aspect of treatment, helping patients cope with the psychological impact of their condition.
7. Alternative Therapies: Some patients may find relief in alternative therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback, or chiropractic care. These therapies might be considered complementary to more traditional medical treatments.
8. Monitoring and Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are critical to monitor the condition and make any necessary adjustments in the treatment plan. Continuous monitoring allows for timely intervention should new symptoms arise or existing ones worsen.

It’s important to note that the treatment of vaginal mesh complications can be complex and may require a combination of these approaches.

Consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in pelvic health is crucial to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.

Prominent Vaginal Mesh Manufacturers and Brands

Several companies have manufactured transvaginal mesh implants.

Among them, Boston Scientific Corp. is one of the prominent manufacturers associated with vaginal mesh devices.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the company’s first vaginal sling device, Protegen, in 1996.

Protegen became the blueprint for other vaginal mesh devices produced by different manufacturers.

Major manufacturers used Protegen’s design and material to produce their own surgical mesh devices.

They also used its approval for their products’ 501(k) clearance from the FDA.

The 501(k) clearance process allows manufacturers to market their products without conducting rigorous safety trials if the device is substantially similar to one already on the market.

This process has come under scrutiny due to the increasing number of complications associated with vaginal mesh implants.

Here are seven well-known manufacturers of vaginal mesh implants and their products:

• Boston Scientific Corp
  • Pinnacle Pelvic Floor Repair Kit
  • Advantage Transvaginal Mid-Urethral Sling System
  • Advantage Fit Transvaginal Mid-Urethral Sling System
  • Obtryx Sling System
  • Obtryx Transobturator Mid-Urethral Sling
  • Lynx Suprapubic Mid-Urethral Sling System
  • Prefyx PPS System
  • Arise Vaginal Support System
  • Polyform Synthetic Mesh
  • Uphold Vaginal Support System
• C.R. Bard, Inc.
  • Bard Avaulta Solo Synthetic Support System
  • Bard Avaulta Plus BioSynthetic Support System
  • Bard Pelvitex Polypropylene Mesh
  • Bard PelviSoft Biomesh
  • Bard Pelvicol Tissue
  • Bard PelviLace
• American Medical Systems, Inc. (AMS)
  • Retroarc Retropubic Sling System
  • Apogee Pelvic Floor Repair System
  • Perigee Transobturator Anterior Prolapse Repair System
  • Elevate Apical and Posterior Prolapse Repair System
  • Miniarc Single-Incision Sling System
  • Miniarc Precise Single-Incision Sling System
  • Monarc Subfascial Hammock
  • Sparc Sling System
• Ethicon, Inc. (A Johnson & Johnson Subsidiary)
  • Obtape Transobturator Tape
  • Prolift Pelvic Floor Repair System
  • Gynecare TVT Obturator System
  • Gynecare TVT-Secur
  • Gynecare TVT Sling Retropubic System
  • Gynecare TVT Exact Continence System
  • Gynecare TVT Abbrevo Continence System
  • Gynecare Interceed Absorbable Adhesion Barrier
  • Gynecare Gynemesh PS Nonabsorbable Prolene Soft Mesh
  • Artisyn Y-Shaped Mesh
• Coloplast Corp.
  • Restorelle Y-Mesh and Flat Mesh
  • Axis and Suspend Allografts
  • Altis Single-Incision Sling
  • Aris Transobturator Sling System
  • Supris Retropubic Sling System
• Cook Medical, Inc.
  • Surgisis Biodesign Urethral Sling
  • Surgisis Biodesign Anterior Pelvic Floor Graft
  • Surgisis Biodesign Posterior Pelvic Floor Graft
  • Stratasys Urethral Sling
• Neomedic
  • Neomedic Needleless Sling
  • Neomedic Contasure Needleless Sling
  • Neomedic Remeex System

These manufacturers and some of their products have been subject to numerous lawsuits due to complications associated with their surgical mesh devices.

As a result, many of these products have either been recalled or are no longer being sold on the market.

Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuits

Transvaginal mesh complications and the lack of proper warning from manufacturers have led to numerous transvaginal mesh lawsuits against them.

Each of the seven manufacturers mentioned above has faced multiple lawsuits from patients who have experienced serious complications and injuries from their products.

These lawsuits often allege that the manufacturers were aware of potential dangers associated with their vaginal mesh implants but failed to provide adequate warning to patients and healthcare providers.

Due to the high number of transvaginal mesh lawsuits, the United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) consolidated most claims into multidistrict litigation (MDL).

This process allows multiple cases with similar claims to be tried in one court, streamlining the legal process and potentially resulting in a quicker resolution for plaintiffs.

The seven medical device manufacturers mentioned above have faced their own MDL cases, with some resulting in significant settlements or verdicts for plaintiffs.

The collective number of lawsuits against these manufacturers is estimated to be over 100,000 cases, making it one of the largest mass tort litigations in history.

Most transvaginal mesh MDLs and lawsuits have already concluded.

The most recent vaginal mesh MDL was consolidated in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia.

U.S. District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the case and closed it in November 2022.

He also returned some individual lawsuits to their original state courts for further proceedings.

While the MDL cases have mostly concluded, there are still ongoing lawsuits and settlements between manufacturers and victims.

The legal battle surrounding transvaginal mesh continues as more women come forward with complications from these devices.

Victims may pursue legal action, hire a transvaginal mesh lawyer, and file a lawsuit in their state court.

However, it’s essential to understand that the statute of limitations for these cases varies by state and may affect a patient’s ability to seek legal recourse.

TorHoerman Law: Your Transvaginal Mesh Lawyer

Vaginal mesh surgery has offered hope to many women, but transvaginal mesh implants have caused serious complications and injuries.

Victims must understand that treatment options for these complications, such as antibiotics, mesh removal surgery, and reconstructive surgery, can be expensive and may involve a significant recovery time.

If you or a loved one have suffered transvaginal mesh complications, you may be eligible to pursue legal action.

An experienced transvaginal mesh lawyer from TorHoerman Law can help protect your rights and hold manufacturers accountable for their negligence.  

Contact us today for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the vaginal mesh lawsuit instantly.