Complications from vaginally placed mesh in pelvic reconstructive surgery.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: We describe complications associated with the use of transvaginal mesh for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.

METHODS: We retrospectively identified patients referred to our institution from January 2003 through September 2007 who had complications after vaginal placement of mesh.

RESULTS: We identified 21 patients with a mean (SD) age of 61 (11) years. Types of mesh used included mesh kits (n = 9, 43%), nontrocar mesh augmentation (n = 5, 24%), IVS Tunneller (n = 4, 19%), and unspecified (n = 3, 14%). Eleven patients (52%) underwent more than one procedure before referral. Only three patients were referred by the original treating surgeon. Complications included mesh erosions in 12 women, dyspareunia in ten, and recurrent prolapse in nine. Sixteen patients (76%) were managed surgically. Follow-up survey among sexually active patients showed 50% with persistent dyspareunia.

CONCLUSIONS: Use of vaginal mesh for pelvic reconstruction can produce complications. Multiple interventions may be necessary, and bothersome symptoms may persist.