Trans-vaginal Mesh Implantation: Benefits Outweighed by Risks
A clinical procedure called Trans-vaginal Mesh Implantation is done by medical professionals for women suffering from Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) and Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). This is typically done by means of inserting a piece of absorbable or non-absorbable synthetic mesh that is mostly made of polyester or polypropylene and has a trocar. The trocar, i. e. the part of the mesh that looks like wings is firmly pressed against a more secure connective tissue in the vaginal wall, and then surgically sewn in place. The trocar looks like wings, making it easier for the surgeon to lodge the mesh and sew it into a more stable connective tissue of the vaginal wall.
On the other hand, despite being an effective treatment for sufferers of POP and SUI, a rising number of serious complications have been reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The most commonly reported adverse effect is the erosion of mesh through the vagina. Based on studies, restoring mesh erosion may need several procedure and may be unhelpful to resolve complications.
Other common adverse effects documented by the FDA from 2008-2010 include vaginal bleeding, shrinkage, and scarring, infections, pain, difficulty in urinating, and pelvic organ perforations. According to the FDA, also included in the most common negative reactions are pains, infections, shrinking, scarring, and/or bleeding of the vagina, problems with urination, and perforation of pelvic organs. There are even incidences of emotional and neuromuscular problems.
A woman who received Trans-vaginal mesh in 2006 for the treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse has suffered constant pain due to urinary complications brought about by the procedure. Since then, she has had 12 more surgeries in an attempt to resolve the problem but to no avail. Now, it has greatly affected her active lifestyle that she cannot even endure sitting for more than 20 minutes.
No limitation about the use of Trans-vaginal mesh was forced by the FDA, but it continually informs licensed professionals involved that in most cases POP and SUI can possibly be repaired without mesh. The risks that could result from Trans-vaginal mesh are greater than anterior colporrhaphy, another common treatment for POP that doesn’t use mesh. However, if the benefit of the procedure outweighs risks, the FDA suggested that surgeons should acquire a specialized training in mesh implantations, and that they disclose all potential complications to their patients.
If you have undergone Trans-vaginal mesh implantation, and are experiencing any unusual conditions like vaginal bleeding, excruciating pain, difficulty in urinating, and painful sexual intercourse, do not delay in seeking professional advice immediately. Routine checkups are imperative and should be strictly observed. If you are thinking about receiving an implant of Trans-vaginal mesh in the future, it is best to learn more about its serious complications first with your physician. Never hesitate to ask for more information about Trans-vaginal mesh implantation.
References:
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/746285
https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=144301
https://www.transvaginalmesh.tv/2011/09/25/what-is-transvaginal-mesh/