Use of mesh in gynaecological surgery

Author(s): C. Mahoney & A. R. B. Smith - Pages: 62–65

Abstract

Mesh is used in gynaecological surgery to treat pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. One in three women in the UK will develop symptoms of pelvic floor weakness during their lifetimes, and one in 10 of these individuals will require surgery. Unfortunately, the rate of surgical failure is high and one-third of women who have undergone a mesh procedure will need another operation. Mesh was introduced to overcome the inherent weakness of the natural tissue. However, its use is associated with complications that can cause significant morbidity in women. The type of mesh used and the location of insertion can have an impact on the nature and severity of any problems. Since the discovery of the complications of mesh, support groups have been established in order to provide support for women, and also lobby for the removal of all mesh implants. It is to be hoped that the situation will prompt regulatory agencies and health professionals to implement more robust approvals processes for medical implants and devices in the future.

Keywords: complications, gynaecological surgery, mesh, pelvic organ prolapse, stress urinary incontinence.