Delayed intravesical mesh erosion in a midurethral sling following further mesh-augmented pelvic prolapse surgery

Abstract

Intravesical mesh erosion and extrusion have been reported as devastating late complications of synthetic suburethral sling placement for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. We report a case of a female patient with intravesical mesh erosion from a sling suspension that developed 4 years after primary prolapse surgery with mesh reinforcement. Intravesical mesh erosion was observed ultrasonographically and confirmed through cystoscopy. We excised the mesh via a vaginal approach and repaired both bladder mucosa and vaginal wall. As of this writing, the patient has been symptom-free for the past year post-surgery. Long-term follow-up is recommended in such cases. Anti-incontinence surgery followed by primary prolapse surgery could potentially jeopardize the former. Complications may arise several years later so long-term follow-up is essential. Ultrasonography is an effective tool in evaluating mesh morphology and detecting intravesical mesh erosion.