Thursday, July 11, 2013

What To Know About The Transvaginal Mesh Implant

By Carmella Watts


The transvaginal mesh implant is a type of medical device. It is made using surgical mesh that might have porous synthetic or biological materials. Typically is employed to fix tissue that has been weakened or damaged. This is often the result of pelvic organ prolapse or incontinence.

Approximately half of women will experience some type of prolapse in their life. Still, only a small amount of this percentage of these cases requires surgery. Mesh might also be used in order to elevate the neck of the bladder to treat issues of urinary incontinence, which often occur when women sneeze, laugh, jump or cough.

There are pros and cons to this device. One of the main issues with this kind of device, and most other medical devices, is the absence of FDA regulation for safety. Once the unit has been implanted, it is difficult to remove. Sometimes it is impossible to take out because it becomes permeated in the surrounding tissues.

Women who have had this implanted have reported issues. Some of the most common problems associated with this device, when used for the repair of prolapse include: protrusion or erosion of mesh, pain, infections, bleeding, damage to surrounding organs, and urinary tract problems. Some less severe complications that have been reported: urinary incontinence and constipation.

Most of these complications pose a high risk. Reversing these dangerous effects may involve undergoing multiple surgeries. The revisions procedures are most beneficial when they are done quickly, especially within a couple years of the original implantation.

The 1990s saw the introduction of this as a potential treatment for vaginal repairs. It was used as a permanent fix for issues of incontinence and organ prolapse. These problems are most common for older women, especially those who have had a hysterectomy or gone through menopause. The mesh had been successfully used in the past for hernia repair but was never officially tested for vaginal repairs.

The first recall of these devices was in the 1990s, several lawsuits and recalls followed after this. In 2011, the FDA reviewed this device and the associated health risks and dangers of using it. Even after this review process, the FDA declined to take it off the market but agreed to more stringent tests of these devices. Many companies have taken it upon themselves to do long studies on the effectiveness and complications associated with the use of these. Others have stopped selling the products all together, well aware of their bad reputation and risks. Numerous lawsuits have been filed by women who have suffered horrible effects caused by implantation of these devices.

The transvaginal mesh implant has been used since the 1990s. It was intended to be employed as treatment for pelvic organ prolapse, POP, and stress urinary incontinence. Since its introduction, the device has had many ups and down. In fact, there are numerous recalls and lawsuits related to the structures. Because serious complications are associated with the devices, people are urged to consult with their doctor to see if this is right for them or what alternatives they have. It is essential to understand that the complications and results will differ by patient.




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