Modern-day surgery employs the principle of inserting surgical mesh within the human body to obtain the desired outcomes. The mesh operates on the principle of the foreign body that triggers an inflammatory response and then creating an elastomeric barrier that protects organs. Surgical mesh is employed for a myriad of procedures such as herniorrhaphy and stress incontinence surgeries as well as pelvic organ prolapse repair. However , it is worth noting that research has revealed some issues using surgical mesh , and consequently, FDA has issued a manual on how to use these meshes.
This is a summary of FDA’s guidelines concerning the use of surgical mesh implants.
Recommendations for doctors: TheFDA gives a separate set of guidelines for the surgeon as well as the patient. The following issues must be handled during the surgical part of the issue.
1.The surgeon must be aware that the majority of cases Prolapse of the pelvic organ could be treated by simple repairs without the requirement of mesh. Thus, the need for transvaginal mesh should be eliminated.
2. The placement of the mesh is a permanent process that once it is in place, it could be challenging to treat the same patient later on in the event of any other issues. This is due to the alteration in the anatomy of the patient’s internal structures due to the effect of mesh placement. It can lead to higher risk in subsequent surgeries.
3.The possibility of complications is greater with the transvaginal positioning of the mesh than with the abdominal procedure. Therefore , abdominal surgery should be the preferred option in all situations, provided there is no reason not to do it.
4.It it is up to the surgeon to ensure that all pros and cons are discussed with the patient prior to the procedure. A full informed consent must be obtained prior to undergoing the procedure.
Recommendations for patients This set of guidelines to be adhered to by patients to reduce the chance of developing complications.
1.It is required that the patient ask the surgeon questions about the mesh procedure. The patient should be aware what the surgeon is thinking about when he chooses to use mesh, and what can be the consequences if a mesh-less procedure is utilized.
2.The women must continue to undergo regular routine post-operative examinations. It is also necessary to report to the surgeon any complications that are developing; e.g. constant vaginal bleeding, excessive vaginal discharge or discomfort in the legs or lower abdomen, constant discomfort and fever. This will enable the rapid treatment for these issues.
3. Patients who have had an operation to repair the pelvic organ prolapse however aren’t sure whether a mesh was installed or not, they should attempt to determine this at their next appointment. This is vital since it will assist the patient identify the potential negative side effects that could occur following the surgery. It can aid in earlier detection of complications.