Are Transvaginal Mesh Devices Safe to Use? Here’s What to Keep in Mind
Whether we like it or not, every now and then, there comes a medical device that ends up causing more harm than good. Despite the rigorous standards the medical industry is subjected to, there are still situations where mistakes happen.
In this context, the transvaginal mesh seems to be a particularly concerning device, with several women complaining of severe side effects. At the same time, these devices are still being recommended by many doctors. How safe are they really?
Well, in this article, let us explore their purpose, their effectiveness, and most importantly, their safety.
Essentially, it is a device used in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). This is a condition that affects about 40% of women globally, with this percentage increasing with age.
Numerous manufacturers have produced transvaginal mesh devices. Some of the prominent names include American Medical Systems (AMS), Johnson & Johnson (Ethicon), and Boston Scientific.
POP occurs when the pelvic floor muscles weaken or stretch, leading to the descent of one or more pelvic organs into the vaginal cavity.
Transvaginal mesh devices are also used to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the involuntary leakage of urine during activities that increase abdominal pressure.
Essentially, the device is designed to provide additional support to the pelvic structures, thereby alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
The mesh itself is typically made of synthetic materials, such as polypropylene, and is intricately designed to create a supportive framework within the pelvic region.
The widespread use of transvaginal mesh devices gained momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It was viewed as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical approaches for treating POP and SUI. However, the increasing reports of complications have brought more awareness to the dangers they pose.
What Are The Dangers of Transvaginal Mesh Devices?
Unfortunately, the use of these devices has been associated with a range of potential dangers and complications, prompting heightened scrutiny and regulatory action.
It’s extremely important to be aware of these risks in order to make informed decisions about how you seek treatment for POP and SUI.
According to TorHoerman Law, one of the risks is ‘mesh erosion.’ It occurs when the implanted mesh begins to migrate or protrude through the vaginal wall, causing discomfort, pain, and potential damage to surrounding tissues.
Sometimes, the synthetic nature of the mesh can trigger adverse reactions, leading to inflammation and tissue damage and ultimately causing erosion. In severe cases, mesh erosion can also warrant surgical intervention.
Some estimates suggest that over 100,000 women have been negatively affected by these devices. This is not an insignificant number. Of these, 95% of the cases have been resolved, settled, or dismissed with payout figures reaching $525 million.
Thus, it isn’t surprising to hear that several women have filed transvaginal mesh lawsuit cases against companies like C.R. Bard.
Other side effects include organ perforation, where the mesh punctures nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum. As you can expect, organ perforation can result in serious complications, including infection and the need for critical care to address the damage. It can also contribute to conditions like dyspareunia, or painful sexual intercourse.
Over time, the mesh may contract or shrink, leading to a change in its position and a potential recurrence of symptoms.
What Safe Alternatives Exist?
Thankfully, several safe alternatives exist that offer viable options for individuals who want to avoid transvaginal mesh devices. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a conservative, non-invasive approach to managing POP.
Specially trained physical therapists work with individuals to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles through exercises, biofeedback, and other techniques. This approach can be effective in improving symptoms and reducing the impact of POP without the need for surgery.
Medical professionals also note improvements are possible when certain lifestyle changes are made. These include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and practicing good bowel habits. Taking such steps can help with the management of POP. Essentially, they aim to reduce the strain on the pelvic floor and prevent the progression of symptoms.
Conclusion
While transvaginal mesh devices are designed to help manage POP, they have been linked to severe side effects, resulting in numerous lawsuits. Considering the uncertainty, safer alternatives, such as pelvic floor therapy and lifestyle changes, may be worth looking at.
If you are suffering from POP and are worried about which treatment method to use, please speak to your physician. You can specifically mention that you are apprehensive about the potential side effects of mesh devices. There may be alternatives that could work perfectly for you.
