What are the Symptoms of Hernia Mesh Failure?

If you’ve had a hernia surgically repaired, chances are very good that the doctor used mesh to help strengthen and secure this area. While it almost always works as intended, hernia mesh can sometimes fail, causing complications. In this blog, Dr. Mark Reiner of NYC Hernia Repair explains more about hernia mesh failure as well as how to recognize it’s symptoms:

What is hernia mesh used for?

A hernia occurs when part of an organ protrudes through an opening in the muscle or tissue that holds it in place. This can form a bulge or sac that sometimes – but not always – causes pain and other symptoms. In some cases, they can be dangerous.

Surgery can be performed to move the protrusion into its proper position and close the opening. This is often done if the hernia is causing pain or discomfort. Surgical mesh is frequently used in this type of surgery. The healing of the opening is strengthened because the tissue grows around and bonds with the mesh material.

What does it mean to have a hernia mesh failure?

A hernia mesh failure occurs when the mesh is causing complications and must be removed. In many cases, complications have been linked to recalled mesh products that are no longer on the market.

What are the signs and symptoms of a hernia mesh failure?

The following are some signs and symptoms to look out:

• Pain: may be caused by scar-like tissue
• Infection: fever, flu-like symptoms
• Bowel obstruction: nausea, vomiting, and inability to pass gas or stools
• Mesh migration or shrinkage: can lead to adhesions, bowel obstruction, or abscesses (a pocket of pus)
• Mesh rejection: severe swelling at the surgical site, tenderness or pain
• Hernia recurrence

What happens if you have a hernia mesh failure?

If you have a hernia mesh failure, your doctor may have to perform surgery to remove the mesh and will also have to repair the hole. Another hernia repair surgery may be necessary, and this can be more difficult to perform. Since tissue may already be damaged and scar tissue may have formed, these areas will have to be avoided as your doctor performs your surgery. Medication may also be needed to fight an infection or other symptoms.

If you have a hernia or symptoms of hernia mesh failure, contact us today for a consultation with Dr. Reiner at NYC Hernia Surgery. He has a keen interest in the repair of inguinal (groin) and abdominal wall hernias and is a leader in the field of minimally invasive hernia repair. Fill out the form on this page to request an appointment or call 212.879.6677 to learn more.