Mesh/pelvic surgery complications
Starting in 2005, many women had transvaginal repair using surgical mesh to correct pelvic organ prolapse — where weakened support structures allow pelvic organs to slip out of place. In 2019, after reports of frequent complications, the FDA ordered all manufacturers of this mesh to stop sales and distribution.
If you’ve had this surgery and are experiencing vaginal bleeding, pain, irritation, discharge or discomfort during sexual intercourse, see your physician as soon as possible.
Mesh/pelvic surgery complications: Treatments
Treatment varies based on symptoms and the extent of damage from the transvaginal surgical mesh. Here are the most common options:
- Observation done with follow-up visits
- Estrogen creams
- Removal of the exposed mesh
- Surgical removal of the majority of the mesh
Mesh/pelvic surgery complications: Our expertise
At UF Health Jacksonville, our team includes accomplished physicians who are board-certified in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. They have the experience and training to assess what damage the mesh may have caused and what can be done to alleviate your symptoms.
- With imaging exams, our specialists will be able to determine if the mesh has shifted position, worn away or come through the wall of the vagina. In less severe cases, there may be nonsurgical options, such as hormone cream treatments and follow-up observations.
- When surgical removal is required, our specialists will use the least invasive approaches to remove the areas of the mesh that are exposed or may decide that the best approach is to remove the majority of the mesh.
- You can be assured that we will conduct a comprehensive review and discuss all options with you, before we develop a surgical plan to meet your needs and provide you with the possible outcomes.
