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Mesh-related chronic infections in silicone-coated polyester suburethral slings

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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Despite claims of equivalence to the tension-free vaginal tape, a variety of suburethral slings have been introduced, with various modifications. Complications in certain synthetic slings and meshes have led to a recent FDA public health notification.

Methods

We report the case histories and management of five women with complications following implant of an InFast sling.

Results

Four of the five patients presented with symptom of chronic vaginal discharge, one presenting with irritative voiding symptoms and bladder pain. Resolution of presenting symptoms requires total removal of this silicone-coated polyester mesh, which often requires a combined vaginal–abdominal approach.

Conclusions

The silicone-coated mesh of the AMS InFAST sling, can become a focus for chronic infection forming a sinus tract into the vagina or other viscus, causing symptoms years after its placement.

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Conflicts of interest

The authors are investigators of an ongoing randomised controlled trial of a MUS, for which they have received a research grant from American Medical Systems.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urogynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, 169 Studley Road, Heidelberg, Melbourne, 3084, VIC, Australia

    Joseph K.-S. Lee, Gerard Agnew & Peter L. Dwyer

  2. University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

    Joseph K.-S. Lee, Gerard Agnew & Peter L. Dwyer

Authors
  1. Joseph K.-S. Lee
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  2. Gerard Agnew
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  3. Peter L. Dwyer
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Correspondence to Joseph K.-S. Lee.

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Lee, J.KS., Agnew, G. & Dwyer, P.L. Mesh-related chronic infections in silicone-coated polyester suburethral slings. Int Urogynecol J 22, 29–35 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-010-1244-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-010-1244-8

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