Advanced Vaginal Mesh Removal

unmatched expertise in minimally-invasive surgical repair

Transvaginal mesh has been successfully used, for several decades, to correct urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Several different types of mesh are available, but the most commonly used mesh is made of polypropylene. This FDA-approved surgery is very safe and effective, but as with any surgery, complications may arise. If you encounter post-surgical complications and need the mesh repaired or removed, only the most highly-experienced surgeons can confidently correct the problems.

She has a proven record of successfully removing vaginal mesh, including some extremely complicated cases. Dr. Christi has removed mesh from her own patients, and also from patients referred to her by other physicians, when the case is severe.

Dr. Christi has implanted transvaginal mesh in hundreds of patients with great success. However, all surgeries risk complication, and sometimes the mesh needs to be partially or completely removed. Her vast expertise in mesh implantation uniquely qualifies her to also remove it.

Ethicon, one of the largest manufacturers of vaginal mesh, chose Dr. Christi as an expert witness for the mesh trials. She knows the research and is fully informed about the potential issues that can arise.

Dr. Christi will only remove vaginal mesh when no other option exists. Before performing surgery, she may recommend less invasive treatments such as trigger point injections or physical therapy.

Sometimes surgery is the only way to correct the problem. If you are experiencing these conditions, surgery may be the right solution:

1. 1. Mesh exposure into the vagina
      When the vaginal walls are thin, or the surgical incision does not heal properly, mesh can be exposed on the vaginal wall. Sometimes this problem can be treated non-surgically, but if it causes pain, infection or discharge, then partial or complete mesh removal may be necessary.
   2. Mesh erosion into the bladder or rectum
      If the mesh is placed too close to, or into the bladder or rectum, complications such as bladder infections or stones may occur. In these cases, mesh removal and repair is the only option.
   3. Painful scar bands
      As patients heal from insertion surgery, some women develop scar banding around the mesh that supports the pelvic structures. These scar bands can be tender or even painful. Trigger point injections or physical therapy are often successful in treating the pain, but sometimes scar tissue must be surgically removed.

Each patient’s needs are unique. The goal of mesh removal is to repair the problem, but not reverse the benefits of mesh surgery, such as improved urine control or prolapse repair. Usually, the deeper portions of the mesh are not the problem, and only the portion directly around the vagina needs to be removed. Complete removal is rarely necessary. Additionally, there are some cases when it is not possible to remove the entire amount.

Dr. Christi assesses each case, and can expertly remove part or all of the mesh, as needed. As both a urological and urogynecological surgeon, she understands the complete pelvic anatomy to successfully repair whatever problem you are having.

If you are having problems after reconstructive surgery, please call our office at 281.717.4003 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Christi will evaluate your needs and determine the best course of action.