how to tell if your hernia repair failed

by Kaylie Windler Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Symptoms that indicate hernia mesh failure include:

Bloating and inability to pass stool.
Area around the surgical site is unusually warm, hot, sore and/or tender.
Fever or other flu-like symptoms.
Nausea and/or vomiting.
Wound isn’t healing properly or is unusually inflamed.
Wound is extremely painful – to the point that it’s affecting your daily activities.
A noticeable lump in or around the area of the original hernia.

Here are some of the common symptoms of hernia mesh failure and rejection:

Swelling at the incision site.
Pain at the incision site.
Bowel obstruction.
Flu like symptoms.
Trouble with bowel movements.
Severe pain.
Hernia recurrence.
High fever.

Nov 17, 2021

Full Answer

What are the signs of hernia mesh failure?

Mesh used for hernia repair surgery has a high failure rate that can cause serious complications for patients, even years after the implant. Seven c ommon signs and symptoms of hernia mesh failure include bulging, burning, constipation, impotent and sexual dysfunction, nausea, lethargy, and pain.

Can a hernia mesh implant fail years later?

At first, a hernia mesh device may not show signs of problems. However, it’s possible for patients to only begin experiencing symptoms that indicate a ripped hernia mesh implant several years after surgery. What’s worse? Symptoms of a ripped hernia mesh device may mimic the symptoms of mesh failure.

How do you know if you had a hernia repair surgery?

you have had hernia repair surgery previously, regardless of when the repair surgery occurred (e.g., one month ago or ten years ago). Diagnosis is difficult. The doctor may need to take x-rays, a CT scan, or another imaging method to identify with certainty that the symptoms you are experiencing are related to the hernia mesh implant. 6.

What should I do if my hernia surgery failed?

If you suspect that your prior hernia surgery has failed because you notice a new bulge or feel pressure, burning or pain in the same place or close to the same place as before, see your doctor right away. Since the only way to repair a hernia is through surgery, it is critical that you see your doctor if you are suffering a relapse.

What does a failed hernia repair feel like?

Seven common signs and symptoms of hernia mesh failure include bulging, burning, constipation, impotent and sexual dysfunction, nausea, lethargy, and pain. Depending on your injury, you may need to seek removal of the hernia mesh implant or revision surgery.

How do I know if I damaged my hernia repair?

The symptoms or signs of a torn or ripped hernia mesh implant are similar to mesh failure symptoms, which includes:Bloating and/or an inability to pass stools or gas.Fever when its cause is unknown.Chills, nausea, and/or vomiting.Warm or hot skin where the incision occurred.More items...•

Can a hernia repair come undone?

One of the most common complications of hernia surgery is that hernias can come back. Doctors call this “recurrence.” Surgeons began using hernia mesh to overcome this problem. The idea is that mesh can further reinforce weakened tissue.

How do I know if my hernia has come back after surgery?

What are the signs and symptoms of recurrent hernias?A bulge at or near the site of the original hernia.Pain — which can range from a dull ache to severe pain — especially when coughing, sneezing or lifting heavy objects.Bloating or constipation.

Why do I still have a bulge after hernia repair?

It is possible that the repair is still intact and bulging of the mesh causes swelling. Bulging can be the result of an insufficient surgical technique. The problem is more frequently seen after repair of large defects, especially when mesh are used to bridge the defects, and more frequent after laparoscopic repair,,.

Can coughing damage my hernia repair?

Deep breathing and circulation exercises are good. Try to avoid vigorous coughing if your repair was done with the open method. Coughing may strain your incision.

How long should a hernia repair last?

The operation usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete and you'll usually be able to go home on the same day.

How long does it take for hernia mesh to set?

Full recovery time may take four to six weeks. Right after surgery, patients should perform only necessary daily functions but can return to light activity after a few weeks of recovery. Heavy activity can resume after six weeks.

What happens if you lift too much after hernia surgery?

Lifting too soon after hernia surgery can cause a hernia reoccurrence and other complications. Do NOT remain sedentary. Moving slowly (walking around for five to ten minutes) at least five or six times a day, and practicing breathing exercises can help prevent blood clots in your lungs.

What does a hernia recurrence feel like?

Symptoms of recurrent hernia A recurrent hernia is recognized as a bulge, sometimes painful, that appears at or near the site of the original hernia. If the hernia progresses and the intestines protrude into the hernia, this can cause severe health complications, such as: Infection. Constipation.

Can you get a hernia in the same place twice?

It is rare for an inguinal hernia to come back (1 to 3 percent chance, depending on the type of hernia and many other factors). Incisional hernias are more likely to return. When a hernia comes back after being repaired, this is called a recurrence.

Why do hernia repairs fail?

A hernia repair can fail months or years after the original surgery due to weight gain, weakening of the surrounding tissue or the formation of a new hernia at the site. An infection can spread to the mesh used in the repair causing a blood clot to form around the location.

What happens if you tear your hernia mesh?

Breakage – mesh can break, causing hernia recurrence, pain and other problems. Shrinkage – when mesh shrinks it pulls tissues together, causing chronic pain. Migration – mesh moves from the original surgery site, protruding from tissues and potentially causing organ perforation, hernia recurrence and pain.

What happens if you lift after hernia surgery?

What happens if hernia mesh moves?

Hernia mesh can also cause other damage to the bowels when it migrates out of place. One severe complication that hernia mesh can cause is bowel perforation. This happens when the hernia mesh either moves out of place or disintegrates.

How long does it take for hernia mesh to set?

What are the common signs of hernia mesh failure?

Failure means that the device used in your hernia repair surgery failed to perform as it should have. Sometimes this is due to a defective mesh pro...

Are some patients more prone to device failure?

Yes. Patients with certain preexisting health conditions have increased chances of complications after hernia repair surgery. Risk factors include...

Can you reduce the risk of hernia mesh complications and failure?

You can reduce the risk of the device failing if you: Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet with lots of fiber and water; Exercise on a regular basis,...

What should I do if I have these symptoms?

Contact your doctor right away and get a CT scan. The physician may also order blood tests, X-rays and MRIs. Diagnostic imaging is often the best w...

If I have a hernia, should I avoid treating it with a mesh?

That is a decision for you and your doctor. Certainly, hernias do not repair on their own. In some cases, no surgery will be required. But in most...

What brands have the highest failure rates?

There are a number of brands that have failed patients. Some of these are subject to hernia mesh lawsuits today. And some of these have been recall...

Should I get a lawyer if my hernia device failed?

You are not responsible for medical device failure, especially if it was due to a defect. The manufacturers of defective medical products are typic...

How do you know if you have a hernia mesh?

Depending on your injury, you may need to seek removal of the hernia mesh implant or revision surgery.

Why does my mesh bulge?

Bulging in the area of the device is often a sign of the mesh dislodging or mesh migration, causing inflammation. Some patients have bulges the size of a softball or greater protruding through their skin. Bulging can also be a sign of hernia recurrence. This bulging is not merely a cosmetic issue.

What does failure mean in hernia surgery?

Failure means that the device used in your hernia repair surgery failed to perform as it should have. Sometimes this is due to a defective mesh product, either from bad design or improper material. Other times this is due to the surgeon’s errors.

What is the most common sign of mesh failure?

1.7 Pain. Perhaps the most common sign of mesh failure is pain (often abdominal pain). Pain may be at the site of the implant and/or other complications the mesh is causing. Pain may be mild or severe, acute or chronic.

What to do if your doctor brushes off your concerns?

If your doctor brushes off your concerns, seek a second or even a third opinion. Not all doctors have experience with implanted medical devices and their risks. You may need to search around for a physician who understands your symptoms. Left untreated, infections may turn deadly.

Why does my implant burn?

Warm or hot skin in the area of the implant (surgical site) is also common when the device has dislodged, shrank, or disintegrated. Burning may also indicate that the device has caused an infection.

Can a hernia recur?

Bulging can also be a sign of hernia recurrence. This bulging is not merely a cosmetic issue. Bulges can become an infection site and have a build up of fluid ( seromas or ascites), and/or spontaneously rupture. In some patients, these bulges can take a long time to form.

What symptoms would i have if i had a reoccurrence 4 1/2 months post - op iguinal laprascopic hernia repair ?

A bulge : The clear sign of a recurent hernia is a bulge or protrusion in the same area as the previous repair. While that might be associated with some pain, ... Read More

What is a bulge in a hernia?

A bulge : The clear sign of a recurent hernia is a bulge or protrusion in the same area as the previous repair. While that might be associated with some pain, ... Read More

What are the symptoms of a ruptured umbilical hernia?

Umbilical Hernia: The common symptoms of ruptured umbilical hernia repair are abdominal pain, bleeding , swelling around that area or bleeding. If you suspect, please c... Read More

How often does a hernia recur after surgery?

Hernia failure: Hernia recurrence is 1-5% after surgery. Poor tissue, obesity, steroid medications, infections and possibly return to heavy work too soon can be some... Read More

How long does it take to video chat with a doctor?

Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more.

Can you have a recurrent hernia?

Sure.: Most inguinal hernia repairs are permanent, but you can have a recurrent hernia for many different reasons. But, there are other conditions that have... Read More

Can you get atrophy from a surgical procedure?

They get smaller: The only way that you could get atrophy of the testes from a surgical procedure is if the artery to the testicles is compromised. The testicular arte... Read More

What Causes Hernia Mesh Failure?

Other reasons may also include a defective design of a particular hernia mesh product and a patient’s preexisting medical problems.

Should You Have Your Hernia Mesh Removed?

Regardless of how mild or severe, a hernia mesh that has failed will most likely need revision surgery or removal of the device.

Why is it so hard to find a fixed mesh failure rate?

Although it is still difficult to arrive at one fixed mesh failure rate due to available data having conflicting findings, factors such as the type of surgery, the surgeon’s experience, and the type of mesh used may all be considered as factors of hernia recurrence rates.

Why does my bowel blockage occur?

Bowel Obstruction. Bowel obstruction may be due to an adhesion, which occurs when scar tissue adheres to the mesh implant. As such, the defective hernia mesh along the abdominal wall may cause constipation, bloating, and vomiting. In cases when there is a complete obstruction of the bowel, it may be necessary to remove it.

What does it mean when a hernia implant bulges?

Bulging at the site of the hernia mesh implant may indicate that the surgical hernia mesh may have moved out of place or migrated, and may also be a sign of an infection or hernia recurrence.

What is the failure rate of mesh surgery?

A 2016 report published in the Journal for the American Medical Association (JAMA) that observed patient experiences five years following hernia mesh surgery found that mesh failure rate was 5.6% for open hernia repair and 3.7% among patients who had laparoscopic hernia repair.

What happens if you get a hernia mesh infection?

A hernia mesh infection occurs when there is a growth of bacteria on the site of implant, which can cause fever, swelling around the surgical site, flu-like symptoms, and other health problems, depending on where it occurs in the body.

How to fix a hernia that has failed?

One possible option to fixing a failed hernia surgery is to undergo laparoscopic surgery. In this type of surgery, a tiny incision is made in the abdomen and a camera is inserted to allow the doctor to see and perform the repairs. Unlike other types of surgery, laparoscopic surgery is not invasive. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it has a higher rate of success when it comes to permanently repairing recurrent hernias. However, one drawback to laparoscopic surgery is that the recovery time is longer.

What is an inguinal hernia?

Inguinal Hernia Symptoms in Women. Share on Facebook. A hernia is when a sac full of tissue bulges out through an opening between the muscles in the abdominal wall. In cases where hernia surgery fails and the person has a recurrent hernia, it can make additional operations harder to perform.

Why did my previous hernia surgery fail?

Can mesh be used for hernia surgery?

Surgery Using Mesh. Many hernia surgeries are now done by putting mesh over and around the site of the hernia to help hold the intestines in. The recurrence rate after this type of surgery is lower than traditional herniorrhaphy where the area is just stitched up, and as such it is a better option for recurrent hernia after laparoscopic surgery.

Is laparoscopic surgery invasive?

Unlike other types of surgery, laparoscopic surgery is not invasive. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it has a higher rate of success when it comes to permanently repairing recurrent hernias. However, one drawback to laparoscopic surgery is that the recovery time is longer.

What is the most common type of hernia?

The most common type of hernia is the inguinal or groin hernia , most often found in males and often a birth defect. Traditional repair of the hernia involves stitching the opening after restoring the inner intestines or other material to their proper position. Failure of the operation makes a second repair more difficult, because of scarring and previous damage.

What happens after a hernia is closed?

After the hernia is closed and contained by the mesh, healing of the opening is strengthened as tissue grows around and bonds with the mesh material.

What to do after a hernia repair fails?

An incision must be made higher than before, to protect already damaged tissue and avoid cutting scar tissue.

What is the mesh used for in abdominal surgery?

During surgery, an organically-compatible mesh material is applied from behind the abdominal wall, which is stitched in place to contain the tear and keep organs in place.

Can a rear approach be used for hernia surgery?

Instead of a frontal approach for repair, a rear approach for surgery must be made behind the weakened abdominal muscle. This avoids hurting already damaged areas, according to the British Hernia Centre.

What is a hernia in medical terms?

Generally speaking, a hernia is a medical condition where an organ pushes through an opening, or defect, in the muscle or tissue that is supposed to keep it in place. Common types of hernia include inguinal, incisional, femoral, umbilical, and hiatal hernias.

How long did it take to repair a hernia?

After the nine-hour surgery to repair the hernia, the surgeon told his patient that he saw the three stitches that the first surgeon had placed, but they were not even close to the hernia itself. The surgeon was also surprised that the intestines had not been pulled down into the right place.

Why do surgeons use mesh?

Some surgeons use mesh for surgical repairs, placing a metal or plastic mesh over the site of the defect or hole to reinforce it and keep the organ in the proper place.

What is abdominal hernia?

Most people who have experienced any type of abdominal hernia will tell you that it is one of the most painful things imaginable. Generally speaking, a hernia is a medical condition where an organ pushes through an opening, or defect, ...

What are the symptoms of a hernia repair surgery?

If you have had a hernia repair surgery, there are some things that you should keep an eye out for. Pain, redness, or swelling at the site of the incision, which could be signs of an infection.

How to contact Painter Law Firm?

Contact. Call 281-580-8800. Send a Message. Visit Us. Legal Newsletter. 281-580-8800. You have a lawyer at Painter Law Firm. Watch out for these signs after a hernia repair. If a repair goes bad, timing can be important.

Is a hernia in the stomach dangerous?

Abdominal hernias can be dangerous and may require urgent surgical attention. I recently handled a failed hiatal hernia repair case where the patient’s stomach herniated and got twisted almost like a phone cord. This was an avoidable condition if the surgeon had performed the initial repair correctly, or had acted quickly when the hernia was demonstrated on a CT scan after the surgery.

How do you know if a hiatal hernia repair has come undone?

Deja Vu: How did you feel when you first had your hiatal hernia - before the surgery? If those same symptoms and signs are returning, talk with your doc .

What does it mean when your breast bone hurts?

Agreed. Typically, recurrence of your reflux or pain beneath your breast bone are hints that your repair has failed.

How long does it take to video chat with a doctor?

Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in less than one minute for common issues such as: colds and coughs, stomach symptoms, bladder infections, rashes, and more.

Can a hernia come undone?

Hiatal hernia: Hiatal hernia repair can come undone. It also may wear out. If you notice a return of symptoms talk to your surgeon. Re-repair is possible but your surgeon will repeat studies and may want to try medical therapy first with you. Hope this helps.

Can a hernia be repaired?

Yes : Of course there area many factors to consider, but most importantly is what the goals of the repair are - resolution of symptoms or prevention from getting worse or both. In general, hiatal hernia repair should have a 90-95% success rate.

Can you call 911 for healthtap?

For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service.

Can You Feel The Mesh After Hernia Repair?

Many patients have expressed their concerns about whether they would feel the mesh after a hernia repair surgery.

Why Does My Hernia Mesh Hurt?

At times, the mesh used in hernia repair surgery can cause irritation or inflammation leading to pain, which is one of the most common complications following a hernia repair surgery using mesh.

How Can I Report Hernia Mesh Complications to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration?

One way to make the agency aware of adverse events or complications is by filing a hernia mesh lawsuit against the manufacturer of the allegedly defective device.

How do hiatal hernias form?

Hiatal hernias form when your stomach bulges through an opening in your diaphragm called the hiatus.

Why are mesh implants recalled?

Reasons behind the recalls ranged from poor performance to packaging mistakes to adverse reactions reported from the use of the medical devices.

Why do you have to remove mesh?

A patient may have to undergo surgical removal of the mesh to treat the injuries sustained from a torn or ripped mesh and to avoid any further injuries or damages.

Where do umbilical hernias occur?

Umbilical hernias develop near or at your belly button. An umbilical hernia occurs when a part of your small intestine bulges through a weak spot in your abdominal muscles. This type of hernia commonly affects infants, but it can also occur in women after they have had many children.

What is a torn mesh?

A torn or ripped hernia mesh device is a mesh implant that has been inserted as part of a hernia repair operation and, while inserted in the body, the device tore apart or otherwise ripped. This can lead to serious complications that may entitle you to compensatory damages if: the mesh was found to be defective; or.

How to tell if a hernia is ripped?

The symptoms or signs of a torn or ripped hernia mesh implant are similar to mesh failure symptoms, which includes: Bloating and/or an inability to pass stools or gas. Fever when its cause is unknown. Chills, nausea, and/or vomiting. Warm or hot skin where the incision occurred.

What happens if you tear a hernia mesh?

It is a painful experience that can lead to other injuries. 9 common signs or symptoms of ripped mesh include: Nerve damage.

What is physio mesh?

The Physiomesh uses a plastic known as polypropylene. It is a lightweight version of the plastic material that tears rather easily. Some mesh have been known to be torn as soon as it came out of the package while others tear during the operation or later, after it has been implanted.

How to diagnose a hernia mesh implant?

Diagnosis is difficult. The doctor may need to take x-rays, a CT scan, or another imaging method to identify with certainty that the symptoms you are experiencing are related to the hernia mesh implant.

What is fluid buildup in hernia surgery?

Fluid buildup at the site of the surgery, known as seromas. Bulging in the area of the hernia. Mild to severe pain. Chronic pain. If you have had hernia repair surgery with mesh anytime in the past and you have any of these symptoms without a known cause, you want to see your doctor about it.

Why does mesh tear?

There are a number of reasons why mesh may tear or rip inside the body, but the overarching cause is a defective mesh product.