What is a hernia mesh implant?

What is a hernia mesh implant?

Hernia mesh, also known as surgical mesh, is a medical device used to support damaged tissue around a hernia while it heals. During hernia surgery, the hernia mesh is placed across the damaged area in the upper stomach, abdomen or groin and attached with sutures.

What is the problem with the hernia mesh?

Hernia mesh complications include adhesion, bowel obstruction or perforation, infection, rejection and migration. After hernia mesh surgery, patients have reported symptoms of pain, mesh failure and hernia recurrence. Hernia mesh problems can occur immediately after surgery or years later.

Are mesh implants for hernias safe?

“Mesh is needed in certain hernias and when placed correctly — and under the right circumstances — it is safe,” he says. Much research remains to be done, however.

Does hernia mesh hurt?

Some people suffer chronic hernia mesh pain that interferes with their daily activities and can last from several months to years. Symptoms include a burning sensation at the surgery site, swelling and pain during intercourse, and the pain may be caused by nerve damage or a reaction to the mesh.

What happens to hernia mesh over time?

Non-absorbable mesh will remain in the body indefinitely and is considered a permanent implant. It is used to provide permanent reinforcement to the repaired hernia. Absorbable mesh will degrade and lose strength over time. It is not intended to provide long-term reinforcement to the repair site.

How do I know if my hernia mesh is damaged?

What are the signs and symptoms of a hernia mesh failure?

1. Pain: may be caused by scar-like tissue.
2. Infection: fever, flu-like symptoms.
3. Bowel obstruction: nausea, vomiting, and inability to pass gas or stools.
4. Mesh migration or shrinkage: can lead to adhesions, bowel obstruction, or abscesses (a pocket of pus)