Pathology of Explanted Transvaginal Meshes

The use of polypropylene mesh devices for Pelvic
Organ Prolapse (POP) spread rapidly during the last decade, yet our
knowledge of the mesh-tissue interaction is far from complete. We
aimed to perform a thorough pathological examination of explanted
POP meshes and describe findings that may explain mechanisms of
complications resulting in product excision. We report a spectrum of
important findings, including nerve ingrowth, mesh deformation,
involvement of detrusor muscle with neural ganglia, and
polypropylene degradation. Analysis of these findings may improve
and guide future treatment strategies.

• Vladimir V. Iakovlev
• Erin T. Carey
• John Steege

• Transvaginal
• mesh
• nerves
• polypropylene degradation.

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