Miami Surgical Mesh Lawyer

Hernia mesh complications worth knowing about

Hernia mesh is generally effective, but the FDA tracks a consistent set of problems reported after implantation. Recognizing these can help you connect ongoing symptoms back to the mesh itself.

• Chronic or persistent pain at the repair site
• Infection that may require mesh removal
• Adhesions, where scar tissue binds to nearby organs
• Bowel obstruction
• Mesh migration away from its original position
• Contraction or shrinkage of the implanted mesh
• Hernia recurrence despite the repair

Breast surgical mesh carries a different regulatory history

Surgical mesh used in breast reconstruction has not been cleared or approved by the FDA for that specific use, even though it is commonly used to support implants during reconstruction. The FDA reaffirmed this in a 2023 communication and specifically said it was not recommending removal in patients who have no symptoms. Reported complications with breast mesh and tissue scaffolds include the following.

• Infection or delayed wound healing
• Seroma or fluid buildup
• Skin necrosis near the implant
• Implant exposure through the skin
• Capsular contracture
• Reconstruction failure requiring reoperation

Surgical mesh recalls and safety actions to review

Regulators and manufacturers have taken action on several mesh products in recent years. These are among the more notable examples.

• Ethicon's worldwide withdrawal of Physiomesh Flexible Composite Mesh in 2016, after registry data showed higher recurrence and reoperation rates
• A 2023 Class II recall of SurgiMend and related biologic scaffold products over endotoxin testing concerns
• Ongoing Class II recalls of SURGIMESH WN and XB products tied to residual adhesive material found on the mesh surface
• A 2024 Class II recall of Cook Biotech's Biodesign Inguinal Hernia Graft

Symptoms that may point to a mesh problem

Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to signs that require urgent attention.

• New or worsening abdominal pain
• Visible bulging at the repair site
• Fever or drainage suggesting infection
• Nausea, vomiting, or inability to pass stool or gas
• Skin changes, exposure, or asymmetry after breast reconstruction
• Swelling that does not resolve on its own

Compensation available in a surgical mesh case

A mesh complication can affect a patient's finances well beyond the initial surgery, and compensation may address several categories of loss.

• Costs of mesh removal or revision surgery
• Treatment for infection, obstruction, or other complications
• Future medical care and monitoring
• Lost income during recovery
• Pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life

A wrongful death claim may also be available if a mesh-related complication contributed to a loved one's death.