Vaginal Extrusion and Erosion
In recent times, the most common complication of bladder slings is mesh erosion and extrusion. They both occur when the mesh invades the urethra, bladder, vagina or other organs. The mesh usually wears through the tissues.
According to research, the risks of experiencing vaginal protrusion varies between 0 percent to 1.5 percent for retropubic slings, which are inserted via a cut in the vagina [5] and set in a U shape close to the urethra. The ends of retropubic swings are placed between the pubic bone and bladder [6]. They are then removed through incisions above the pubic bone.
The risks of experiencing vaginal extrusion for transobturator slings varies between 0 percent and 10.9 percent. The transobturator slings do not go through the spaces between the bladder and pubic bone. The mesh is inserted via the vagina and the ends are removed through cuts between the labia and the creases of the thighs. Also, research shows that over 1 percent of women who undergo sling surgeries may experience urethral erosion.
Generally, mesh slings help the urethra to resolve SUI, but mesh may invade the vagina, bladder or other organs. According to experts, erosion usually happens in 3-4 percent of sling surgeries, not 1 percent. In most cases, the risks of experiencing erosion depends on the surgical technique. However, Mesh that comes in contact with the vaginal wall, like the transobturator slings are more likely to cause vaginal erosion.