Nearly 90% of hernias are repaired with mesh products, so it is important to be aware of the potential complications. Some of the most common negative effects of surgical mesh repair include chronic pain, infection, reoccurrence of the hernia, adhesion, mesh shrinkage, rejection of the implant, movement of the mesh, seromas, and bowel obstruction and organ perforation. Many of the mesh products that caused these complications have been recalled and are no longer on the market, nor are they used in surgical centers or hospitals. Symptoms associated with hernia mesh failure include:
- Severe pain
- Groin or testicular pain
- Internal bleeding
- Bruising
- Tissue erosion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inability to pass gas or stool
- Difficulty urinating
- Abdominal rigidity
- Drainage from the incision
- Inflammation
- Extreme swelling
- Tenderness
- Redness
- Fever
- Other flu-like symptoms
To diagnose you with one of these hernia mesh complications, your doctor may perform several diagnostic tests, including X-rays, CT scans, and blood tests. Mesh failure often requires immediate medical treatment and possible repeat surgery to correct the situation.