Patient Suffers Complications From Vaginal Mesh Implant

This case takes place in Massachusetts and involves the implantation of a synthetic vaginal mesh system during an abdominal sacrocolpopexy. While the surgery to implant the mesh was successful and complication-free, the patient began complaining of pain during intercourse, as well as repeated urinary tract infections, a few months after receiving the implant. Eventually, it was discovered that the mesh implant had eroded through the patient’s vaginal wall. In order to repair the damage and remove the implant, the patient was forced to undergo multiple revision surgeries.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Do you perform the procedures described in this brief summary?

2. Are you familiar with TVM products?

Expert Witness Response E-008679

I perform sacrocolpopexy, TVT, as well as surgeries to remove mesh and resolve vaginal stenosis. The performance of a sacrocolpopexy and the use of gynemesh for the procedure are not a priori outside of the standard of care. The indication(s), documentation of discussion of risks and alternatives with the patient and the details of the performance of the procedure may or may not meet the standard of care. The speed with which the erosions were diagnosed and the appropriateness of the treatment(s) may or may not be adequate. The occurrence of vaginal stenosis after a simple midurethral sling is very uncommon. this is likely to involve care that falls below the generally accepted standards. I have extensive clinical experience and extensive experience as a legal expert in cases involving vaginal/pelvic mesh and its complications. In addition to serving as an expert for the plaintiffs in one of the MDLs of the suit against Bard Urology.