7 Common Symptoms Of Hernia Mesh Failure

Hernia mesh failure is a common and surprisingly widespread issue with mesh products. It is estimated that 7% of all mesh implants fail within a year of implantation. That's why it's so important to recognize mesh failure symptoms.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are experts in hernia mesh lawsuits. The whole team is committed to holding people responsible for their negligence and helping those affected by defective hernia mesh get the needed assistance.

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• We have over 20 years of experience representing injured individuals in their claims against large corporations and government agencies.
• Our lawyers represent the victims of defective hernia mesh in the United States. 
• Our law firm will deal with every aspect of your case on your behalf and guide you through every stage of litigation.

Quick Summary

• If you experience persistent pain after hernia repair surgery, it may be a sign that the mesh has failed.
• If the hernia returns after surgery, it might be an indication that the mesh has failed. 
• If you develop an infection at the surgical site, it may signify the mesh has become infected and needs to be removed. Other signs of infection may include fever, swelling, redness, and drainage from the surgical site.

What Are the Most Common Signs of Hernia Mesh Failure

Common signs of hernia mesh failure include:

• Pain
• Burning
• Bulging
• Constipation
• Impotence
• Nausea
• Lethargy

1. Pain

Hernia mesh failure can cause pain ranging from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent. The pain may be felt at the site of the mesh implant or in other areas of the body.

The type and intensity of the pain can vary from person to person, and other symptoms, such as swelling or redness at the site of the mesh implant, may accompany it.

Your pain may be sharp, stabbing, or throbbing, and it may be worse when the person is performing certain physical activities or when pressure is applied to the site of the mesh implant. 

2. Burning

A burning sensation at the site of the hernia mesh implant may be caused by inflammation or irritation of the tissue surrounding the mesh.

This can be due to the mesh rubbing against the tissue, causing irritation and discomfort. The burning sensation may be accompanied by pain and swelling.

3. Bulging

If the hernia mesh becomes damaged or weak, it may not provide adequate support to the abdominal wall, leading to a visible protrusion or bulge.

This bulging can occur when the abdominal contents push against the mesh, creating a protrusion.

The bulging may be accompanied by pain and discomfort.

4. Constipation

Hernia mesh can obstruct bowel movement through the intestine, leading to difficulty passing stools and constipation.

This can be due to the mesh blocking the bowel movement or resulting from discomfort or pain caused by the mesh, making it difficult for the person to have a bowel movement. Constipation may be accompanied by abdominal pain and discomfort.

5. Impotence

Damage to the nerves and blood vessels that supply the penis can result in impotence, or difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection, in men with hernia mesh failure.

This can be due to scarring or damage caused by the mesh, which can affect the blood flow to the penis and interfere with the ability to achieve an erection.

Impotence may also be accompanied by pain or discomfort during sexual activity.

6. Nausea

Nausea is a common symptom of hernia mesh failure due to discomfort or irritation caused by the mesh, or it may result from constipation or other gastrointestinal issues. Nausea can be accompanied by abdominal pain, discomfort, and a loss of appetite.

7. Lethargy

A lack of energy and motivation is also a common symptom of hernia mesh failure due to physical discomfort or pain caused by the mesh and the emotional stress of dealing with a chronic health condition.

Lethargy can make it difficult for a person to perform daily activities and may be accompanied by a lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities.

Related Article: Hernia Mesh Lawsuit Update

Are Some Patients at Greater Risk for Device Failure?

Yes, some patients may be at a higher risk for hernia mesh failure than others.

Patients at greater risk for device failure include:

• Diabetes (type I or II): Diabetes can affect the body's ability to heal properly after surgery and can increase the risk of complications, including infection and hernia mesh failure.
• Chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (lung disease): Chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can interfere with the body's ability to get enough oxygen, affecting the healing process after surgery. This can increase the risk of complications, including hernia mesh failure.
• Coagulopathy (blood clotting problems): Patients with blood clotting disorders may be at a higher risk for hernia mesh failure due to increased bleeding and clotting during and after surgery.
• Benign prostate hyperplasia: Benign prostate hyperplasia, or an enlarged prostate, can increase the risk of complications during surgery, including hernia mesh failure.
• Obesity: Obese patients may be at a higher risk for hernia mesh failure, as the increased weight and pressure on the abdominal wall can strain the mesh.
• Jaundice: Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, can be a sign of liver damage and may increase the risk of complications during surgery, including hernia mesh failure.
• Cirrhosis (scarred liver): Cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver, can affect the body's ability to heal properly after surgery and can increase the risk of complications, including hernia mesh failure.
• Smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications, including infection and hernia mesh failure.
• Anemia: Anemia, or a low red blood cell count, can affect the body's ability to get enough oxygen to the tissues, which can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications after surgery.
• Radiotherapy: Previous radiation therapy may increase the risk of complications during surgery, including hernia mesh failure.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system and may increase the risk of complications during surgery, including hernia mesh failure.
• Autoimmune diseases: Various autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis: Autoimmune diseases can affect the body's ability to heal properly after surgery and may increase the risk of complications, including hernia mesh failure.
• Malnutrition: Poor nutrition or malnutrition can affect the body's ability to heal properly after surgery and may increase the risk of complications, including hernia mesh failure.
• Chronic steroid use: Steroids can weaken the immune system and may increase the risk of complications during surgery, including hernia mesh failure.

See all related defective medical device cases our lawyers have covered.

Are You Able to Reduce the Risk of Complications and Hernia Failure?

Yes, you can reduce the risk of complications and hernia mesh failure after surgery if you:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Following post-surgery instructions
• Avoid heavy lifting and any activity that strains the abdomen area
• Seeking medical attention for any unusual symptoms

What Should I Do When I Suffer From These Symptoms?

If you suffer from these symptoms related to hernia mesh failure, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

You should follow the instructions of your healthcare provider. In some cases, additional treatment, such as removing the hernia mesh, may be necessary to address hernia mesh failure symptoms. If you cannot reach your healthcare provider or have severe symptoms, you should seek emergency medical attention.

"Hernia mesh failure occurs when surgical mesh has to be removed because it’s causing complications. Symptoms of hernia mesh failure include mild pain or tenderness, constipation or bowel obstruction, and hernia recurrence."
- Michelle Llamas, BCPA at drugwatch.com

If I Have a Hernia, Should I Avoid Treating It With a Mesh?

Whether or not to use hernia mesh as a treatment option for a hernia is a decision that should be made on an individual basis, based on the specific circumstances of the patient and the recommendations of their healthcare provider.

Potential risks and benefits are associated with hernia mesh surgery, and the decision to use mesh should be made after careful consideration and discussion with a healthcare provider.

Which Brands Have the Highest Success Rates?

Below are some brands with the highest success rates:

Products Facing Lawsuits

Below are some products facing lawsuits:

Products Recalled by FDA

Below are the products recalled by FDA:

Should I Get a Lawyer if My Device Fails?

Yes, you can get a lawyer if your device fails after undergoing hernia repair surgery.

If you are experiencing complications or suspect that your device has failed, you should get in touch with a lawyer. A lawyer can provide you with information about your rights and help you understand the potential outcomes of legal action.

FAQs

What Does Hernia Mesh Pain Feel Like?

Hernia mesh pain feels like aching or throbbing in the abdominal area, sharp or stabbing pain when coughing, sneezing, or bearing down, or pain that radiates to the back or groin. Swelling or redness at the hernia repair site may also be present.

Can I Sue if My Hernia Mesh Has Failed?

Yes, you can sue if your hernia mesh has failed due to a manufacturing defect or other issue; it may be appropriate to seek legal advice to determine your options. A lawyer can provide you with information about your rights and help you understand the potential outcomes of legal action.

Can a Failed Hernia Repair Be Fixed?

A failed hernia repair may be able to be fixed with additional surgery. The specific treatment plan will depend on the nature of the failure and the patient's circumstances. It is important to remember that every situation is different, and it may not be possible to fix a failed hernia repair in all cases. 

How Do You Know if Your Hernia Mesh Has Failed?

If your hernia mesh has failed, you may experience any of these symptoms: persistent pain in the area where the mesh was placed, swelling or redness at the site of the mesh, a bulge or protrusion in the area of the mesh, fever or infection.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we assist individuals in pursuing legal action against manufacturers when defective products, including hernia mesh, have injured them.

If you have experienced complications from hernia mesh, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. Contact us to get a free lawsuit evaluation with our lawyers.

Reference:

1. https://www.drugwatch.com/hernia-mesh/complications/failure/
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15757-hernia
3. https://medtruth.com/articles/health-features/hernia-mesh-complications/
4. https://medtruth.medium.com/5-signs-you-have-hernia-mesh-complications-a41ac3125dd8