What Does Mesh Migration Mean
& What Are the Risks?

Hernia mesh migration is a potential complication that can occur following hernia repair surgery. During the repair surgery, a mesh is used to support the weakened area of the abdominal wall and prevent the hernia from recurring.

In some cases, the mesh may shift or move from its original position, leading to pain and potentially requiring surgical intervention.

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.

Why Choose Schmidt & Clark, LLP For Your Claim

• 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

• Hernia mesh migration is a rare but serious complication following hernia repair surgery.
• Mesh migration has been seen in 2.5% of patients who have had the use of permanent or temporary mesh to repair their hernias.
• Hernia mesh migration is painful and debilitating and can have drastic negative impacts on daily life for the patient, who may struggle with chronic pain.

What Does Mesh Migration Mean?

Mesh migration is the movement of hernia mesh material from its original placement during repair surgery. Hernia mesh is a medical device made of synthetic or biological material used to reinforce the weakened area of the abdominal wall and prevent a hernia from recurring. 

During hernia repair surgery, the mesh is typically placed over the area of the hernia and secured in place with sutures or other types of fixation devices.

However, in some cases, the mesh may shift or move from its original placement, a condition known as mesh migration.

Mesh migration can occur immediately following surgery or may appear several weeks or months later. It can be caused by various factors, including poor surgical technique, improper mesh selection or placement, and the body's natural healing process.

Mesh migration can lead to multiple complications, including pain, inflammation, the formation of additional hernias, and even organ damage.

Related Article: Hernia Mesh Patch Lawsuit Update

What Complications Do Implant Migrations Cause?

The most frequent complications implant migrations cause are infection, adhesion formation, unusual bleeding, fistula formation, chronic pain, and hernia recurrence.

Infection

Migration of the implant may disrupt the body's natural healing process and increase the risk of infection. The implant itself may also be a source of infection if it is not adequately sterilized or becomes contaminated after surgery. Symptoms of infection may include fever, redness and swelling at the surgical site, and discharge of pus.

Adhesion Formation

The mesh migration may cause adhesions (scar tissue) to form, leading to complications such as bowel obstruction or pain during movement.

Unusual and Serious Bleeding

Hernia mesh migration following repair surgery may cause irritation and inflammation of the surrounding tissues, leading to bleeding.

The bleeding may occur at the surgical site or be more widespread and potentially life-threatening. In some cases, the bleeding may be caused by a surgical injury or disruption of blood vessels or other structures near the implant.

Fistula Formation

A fistula is an abnormal connection between two organs or between an organ and the skin. The migration of an implant may cause a fistula to form, which can lead to complications such as infection, abdominal abscess, or sepsis (a potentially life-threatening infection that spreads throughout the body).

Fistulas may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements.

Hernia Recurrence

If the migrated implant is not properly repositioned or replaced, it may not provide adequate support to the weakened abdominal wall area, leading to the hernia recurrence.

Symptoms of a hernia recurrence may include a bulge in the abdomen or groin, discomfort or pain when lifting or exerting pressure on the affected area, and difficulty passing gas or having bowel movements.

Chronic Pain

Migration of the implant can cause irritation and inflammation of the surrounding tissues, leading to chronic pain. This pain may be constant or intermittent and may be followed by other symptoms, such as swelling or tenderness at the surgical site.

Chronic pain from hernia mesh surgery may be challenging to manage and require additional treatment, such as medication or physical therapy.

What Are the Symptoms or Signs of Mesh Migration?

Below are some of the symptoms or signs of mesh migration:

• Bloating or an inability to pass stools or gas - Mesh migration may cause adhesions (scar tissue) to form, which can lead to changes in bowel movements, such as constipation or difficulty passing gas.
• Fever when its cause is unknown - A fever may indicate an infection, which may be caused by mesh migration.
• Chills, nausea, and vomiting - These symptoms may indicate an infection or complications related to mesh migration.
• Warm or hot skin on the place of incision - Warm or hot skin may indicate inflammation or infection at the surgical site, which may be caused by mesh migration.
• The wound from surgery is not healing - If the injury is not healing properly, it may be a sign of mesh migration or another complication.
• Fluid buildup at the surgery site, known as seromas - A seroma is a collection of fluid that may occur at the surgical site. It may be a sign of mesh migration or another complication.
• Bulging in the area of the hernia - If the mesh migrates away from the site it was intended to repair, it may cause a bulge or protrusion in the abdomen or groin.
• Mild to severe pain - Mesh migration can cause irritation and inflammation of the surrounding tissues, leading to pain. The pain may be constant or intermittent and more severe when the affected area is touched or moved.
• Chronic pain - Chronic pain persists for an extended period and may be challenging to manage. It may be a sign of mesh migration or another complication.

What Happens When the Implant Moves Into the Bladder?

If an implant moves into the bladder, it can cause various complications. The implant may cause irritation and inflammation of the bladder lining, leading to symptoms such as:

• Frequent urination - The implant in the bladder may stimulate the bladder muscles and cause an increased need to urinate.
• Pain or discomfort during urination - The implant may cause irritation or pressure on the bladder wall, leading to pain or discomfort during urination.
• Blood in the urine - The implant may cause irritation or damage the bladder lining, leading to blood in the urine.

In addition to these symptoms, the implant may cause blockages in the urinary tract, leading to:

• Urinary retention - The implant may cause a blockage in the urethra, preventing the normal flow of urine out of the body. This can lead to urinary retention or the inability to urinate.
• Kidney damage - If the implant causes a blockage in the urinary tract, it may prevent the normal flow of urine and lead to kidney damage.

What Happens When the Implant Moves Into the Scrotum?

If an implant moves into the scrotum (the sac that contains the testicles), it can cause a variety of complications. The implant may cause irritation and inflammation of the scrotal tissue, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and tenderness in the scrotum.

It may also cause blockages in the reproductive or urinary tracts, leading to fertility issues or urinary retention.

How Is Migration Diagnosed?

Migration of a medical implant, such as a hernia mesh, can be diagnosed by evaluating the patient's symptoms and medical history.

During the physical examination, the healthcare provider will assess the patient's symptoms and examine the surgical site for signs of migration, such as swelling, redness, or a bulge.

They may also ask the patient about their medical history and any medications they are taking, as these factors may impact the diagnosis.

Imaging studies, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, are used to confirm the presence of a migrated implant and determine its location.

These studies also help identify complications, such as adhesions or organ damage. The healthcare provider may use imaging guidance, such as ultrasound, to assist with the placement of the imaging device and to ensure the most accurate results.

Laboratory tests, such as blood or urine tests, may be used to check for signs of infection or other complications related to the migrated implant. These tests may help to identify any abnormalities in the patient's blood counts, kidney function, or other aspects of their health.

Do You Need Another Surgery?

Patients may need another surgery to correct the migration of a medical implant, such as a hernia mesh in some cases. The need for additional surgery may depend on the location of the migrated implant, the migration's severity, and any complications' presence.

If the migrated implant is causing symptoms or complications, such as pain, infection, or organ damage, the healthcare provider may recommend surgery to reposition or remove the implant.

The surgery may be performed through an incision in the abdomen or another route, depending on the location and size of the implant. 

In some cases, it may be possible to remove the implant through a minimally invasive procedure, such as laparoscopy or cystoscopy. If the migrated implant is not causing any symptoms or complications, the healthcare provider may recommend monitoring the implant rather than performing surgery.

"Despite the complexity of mesh removal, patients undergoing mesh removal can often be discharged within hours of the operation. Often the patient will experience relief of symptoms within hours or days of the surgery. This can be a life-changing operation for many."
- Jonathan Yunis, M.D. at the Center for Hernia Repair

Do Some Mesh Products Migrate More Than Others?

Yes, there are mesh products more known to migrate than others; they are:

• Atrium C-Qur Edge 4
• Ethicon Physiomesh

Atrium C-Qur Edge 4

Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 is a mesh product of a combination of absorbable and non-absorbable materials. It was used for the repair of hernias and other abdominal wall defects.

However, Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 has been associated with a higher risk of migration and other complications, such as infection and adhesions, compared to different types of mesh. As a result, Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 is no longer available on the market.

Ethicon Physiomesh

Ethicon Physiomesh is a mesh product made of a synthetic material called polypropylene. It was used for the repair of hernias and other abdominal wall defects.

Ethicon Physiomesh has also been associated with a higher risk of migration and other complications, such as infection and adhesions, compared to different types of mesh. Ethicon Physiomesh is no longer available in the United States but may still be available in other countries.

When Should You Get in Touch With a Personal Injury Lawyer?

You should contact a personal injury lawyer if you have suffered hernia mesh migration following repair surgery. A personal injury lawyer is a legal professional representing clients who have been harmed due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others.

There are several circumstances in which you may want to consider contacting a personal injury lawyer:

• If you have suffered significant injuries or damages - If the migration of a medical implant has caused significant injuries or damages, such as chronic pain, organ damage, or financial losses, you may wish to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.
• If you are unsure of your legal rights or options - A personal injury lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and options and help you determine whether you have a valid claim.
• If you cannot negotiate a settlement with the manufacturer or distributor of the medical implant - If you cannot reach an agreement with the manufacturer or distributor of the medical implant, a personal injury lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement or pursue legal action.
• If you are experiencing financial hardship - If the migration of a medical implant has caused financial hardship, such as medical bills or lost wages, a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you seek compensation to cover these costs.

It is important to note that personal injury claims have time limits, known as statutes of limitations, so it is crucial to act promptly if you wish to pursue legal action. A personal injury lawyer can help you.

Related Articles:

• Hernia Mesh Revision Surgery & Implications for Lawsuits
• Symptoms Of Hernia Mesh Failure

See the other defective medical device lawsuits our lawyers have covered.

FAQs

What Happens When Hernia Mesh Migrates?

When hernia mesh migrates, it moves from its intended position to another in the body. This can occur if the mesh is not properly secured in place or if the body rejects it.

Migration of hernia mesh can lead to serious complications, including pain, infection, and the need for additional surgery to remove or reposition the mesh.

In some cases, migrated hernia mesh can cause damage to surrounding organs or tissues

How Does Hernia Mesh Migration Feel Like?

When your hernia mesh has migrated, you may feel pain or discomfort at the site of the hernia repair or in other areas of your body if the mesh has migrated.

If the mesh has become infected, you may have symptoms such as fever, redness or swelling at the site of the hernia repair. If the hernia mesh has migrated and is pressing on a nerve, you may experience numbness or tingling in the affected area.

Can Mesh From Hernia Repair Cause Problems Years Later?

Yes, mesh used for hernia repair may cause complications or problems years later. The risk of complications may depend on the type of mesh used, the patient's characteristics, and the surgical technique.

Some common complications that may occur years after hernia repair with a mesh include infection, hernia recurrence, adhesions (scar tissue), chronic pain, and mesh migration.

How Common Is Hernia Mesh Migration?

Hernia mesh migration is a rare complication of hernia repair surgery. It is estimated to occur in about 2.5% of hernia repair procedures.

However, the exact incidence of hernia mesh migration is difficult to determine because it is not always diagnosed or reported.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Legal claims are currently being filed against many manufacturers of mesh devices for failing to warn patients and physicians of the health risks associated with defective hernia mesh products.

If you suffer from a severe hernia mesh injury or your loved one died due to defective hernia mesh, contact an experienced lawyer at Schmidt & Clark, LLP to discuss your legal options.

We are an experienced team of personal injury lawyers focusing on presenting plaintiffs in hernia mesh claims. Our lawyers are handling numerous lawsuits nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

References:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36420345/
2. https://www.drugwatch.com/hernia-mesh/complications/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6545489/#:~:text=Migration%20of%20mesh%20after%20any,or%20probably%20external%20displacing%20forces.
4. https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/news-publications/journals/case-reviews/issues/v3n6/holder-murray-mesh/
5. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7507712_Mesh_migration_following_repair_of_inguinal_hernia_A_case_report_and_review_of_literature
6. https://surgicalcasereports.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40792-014-0004-2
7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210261220312554