A transvaginal mesh implant is a kind of medical structure. It is constructed from a surgical mesh that may feature biological or porous synthetic materials. Usually these are used to repair tissue that has been damaged or weakened, typically because of pelvic organ prolapse or POP, or stress urinary incontinence.

Around 50 percent of women will have some kind of prolapse during their life. However, just a small portion of these women will have to have surgery to fix issues caused by it. Mesh is also used to elevate the neck of a bladder to fix problems with urinary incontinence, which are typical when a woman coughs, jumps, laughs or sneezes.

There are positives and negatives to these meshes. One of the main problems associated with the structure, and other such medical devices, is the lack of safety regulation done by the FDA. Once these units have been installed, they are hard to remove. In some cases, it is impossible to remove the devices because they permeate in the nearby tissues.

Those who have this device installed have made complaints. Many problems associated with the device used for prolapse include: pain, bleeding, infection, damage to organs, urinary tract issues, and erosion or protrusion of the mesh. Constipation and urinary incontinence are less severe complications reported.

Often these complications are very dangerous. In order to reverse serious effects, multiple surgeries may need to be performed. These revision procedures should be done as soon as possible, preferably within a couple years following the placement.

The 1990s is when these were first being used as treatment for repairs of the vagina. They were through to be an effective and permanent solution for problems of prolapse and incontinence. These issues were common in women of older age, particularly those who had experience menopause or had a hysterectomy. The mesh was used successfully for hernia repair but had never been tested out on vaginal repairs.

During the same decade of introduction, these devices were also recalled. There were several recalls and lawsuits that followed. In the year 2011, the FDA finally did a review of this device, checking its risks and potential dangers to health. After this process was done, they did not agree to take the unit off the market but said there would be more detailed tests done on the devices. Most companies have taken the initiative to perform long studies and test the complications and effectiveness of the mesh. Some have even stopped manufacturing these devices all together, knowing all to well the risks and bad reputation associated with the units. A lot of lawsuits have been issued by patients who have had adverse reactions to these devices.

Transvaginal mesh implant is the medical device that has been around since the 1990s and is used for treatment of prolapse and incontinence. Since this time, the structures has had its share of ups and downs. In fact, many lawsuits and recalls have been issued for these structures. Because there are high risks and potential complications linked to the use of these devices, individuals are urged to speak with their physician to see if this is a treatment option for them. There may be alternatives with lower risks. Individuals must understand that the results and complications will be different for every person.