Hernia Mesh Failure Signs, Symptoms & Treatment
A hernia is a medical condition that occurs when any of your organs inside the body pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall or tissue that contains it. Hernias are of different types and are more commonly observed in the abdominal and groin areas. Physically, it may appear like a bulge or a bubble protruding out of your skin in the affected area. The bulge may appear and disappear when you are in certain positions or while performing different physical activities.
Depending on where they appear in the body, hernias are classified into different types; inguinal hernias (develop in the inguinal canal), umbilical hernias (develop near the belly button (umbilicus)), and incisional hernias (develop near the previous incision) are the most commonly observed.
Hernias can cause severe pain or other symptoms. Based on the hernia’s location, size, and type, the severity of symptoms can vary. In some cases, hernias can be asymptomatic, which means people may not experience any symptoms.
Some common hernia symptoms include:
- A visible bulge or lump in the affected area
- Discomfort or pain surrounding the hernia
- A sensation of burning or aching
- Feeling heavy or pressure in the affected area
- Discomfort or the bulge may come and go when you cough, lift, or bend.
Symptomatic or asymptomatic, both types of hernias can cause complications, and most of them require surgical repair.
Hernia mesh repair surgery
Hernia repair surgeries can be done either as an open surgery or as a laparoscopic procedure. In both procedures, patients own tissue or a mesh can be used to repair the hernia. Hernia mesh has been used over a few decades in hernia repair surgery. It is an innovative solution to reinforce the weakened area and reduce the risk of recurrence. Hernia mesh is usually made of polypropylene or polyester, which are durable and long-lasting. Sometimes meshes are coated with absorbable materials before placing to minimize adhesion and promote healing.
Mesh failure means malfunction or inability to perform its functions. Several factors contribute to mesh failure—defective mesh products, surgical errors, and others, which include:
- Mesh migration, which means the mesh might have displaced from its original position.
- Contraction of mesh, which means the mesh might shrink over time.
- When the mesh fails to attach to the surrounding tissue.
- Deterioration of mesh—over time the mesh may deteriorate and break down.
- Infections affecting the mesh
- Adhesions—attachment of abnormal tissue between organs and the mesh.
Insufficient mesh strength, incorrect size, poor positioning, and incompatible materials can also lead to mesh failure and complications.
Complications from a hernia mesh are observed in 2% to 8 % of patients who have had a mesh placed during surgery. They appear immediately or years after the implant. The severity of complications also varies based on mesh type, surgical technique, patient health, and other factors.
Common signs and symptoms of hernia mesh failure
Persistent pain—the most obvious symptom of mesh failure. It can be mild or severe, acute or chronic. Pain may indicate various complications like infection, GI problems, organ perforation, mesh rejection, etc.
Abdominal pain, which may become worse with movement or coughing.
Fever, which is a sign of infection.
Swelling or bulging—it is a sign of dislodging or migration of the mesh and is observed in the area where the mesh is placed. It causes inflammation and can be a sign of hernia recurrence.
Burning sensation—in case of displacement or shrinkage of mesh, you may feel warm or hot skin in the implant area (surgical site). Infection in the imlanted area can also cause burning. It may appear suddenly or slowly over time.
Constipation—if meshes implanted along the abdominal wall are defective or failed, it may affect your stomach, small intestines, or colon. It leads to various other health problems, like the inability to pass gas, urine, or stools. This symptom is more commonly observed in patients with umbilical hernias and individuals who develop scar tissue.
Impotence—sexual dysfunction is rare but observed in men who have undergone hernia repair with mesh. This symptom is more commonly observed in patients with inguinal hernias. Various factors contribute to this symptom, which may be caused by inflammation or irritation triggered by the mesh or when a nerve gets trapped in the mesh.
Nausea—nausea is a common symptom of several medical problems, but it can be a serious sign if the patient has an implanted device. For instance, it can be a sign that the mesh moved to the intestines, causing an intestinal blockage. If you experience dehydration or any flu-like symptoms, consult your surgeon right away.
Unusual discharge or bleeding from the implated surgical area.
Lethargy—also known as chronic fatigue may be a sign of implant rejection by the body. However, it may also indicate infection or inflammation in the surgical area, which requires medical attention promptly.
Patients with certain pre-existing health conditions, like diabetes, lung disease, obesity, liver problems, jaundice, autoimmune diseases, etc., are at higher risk of complications after a hernia repair surgery. If you are looking for the best hernia repair surgeon in Hyderabad, consult Dr. Venugpal Pareek; he can help you evaluate your condition and suggest the best course of treatment. Call +91 91777 77715 for consultation.
