Hello In Aug 2014 I Had Laparoscopic Surgery Where Mesh

Posted on Thu, 9 May 2019

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Thu, 9 May 2019 Answered on

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Question : Hello in Aug 2014 I had Laparoscopic surgery where Mesh was used to repair an incarcerated umbilical hernia. Six months later I had to undergo a complete abdominal hysterectomy, when it was discovered I had a large mass on my ovary, at the same time I had hernia revision surgery to remove the mesh along with several fluid filled cysts and the infection. What I'd like to know is why would I have a large solid lump (the size of my fist) next to my belly button that stings? And why would it sting? And could it caus me to have intestinal problems? I just spent three horrible days not being able to go to the bathroom and my muscles all around my belly were aching.

Answered by Dr. Shinas Hussain (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Get a CT scan done.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for the query,
Most probably it will be an abscess or pus collection developed as a consequence of mesh infection. We have to rule out other possibilities like bowel injury even though it is unlikely.
The pus and infected materials has to be removed immediately to prevent complications like sepsis. A high end antibiotic cover is also required.
As of now you can consult a general surgeon and plan for a CT scan.
Wishing all the best.
Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Shinas Hussain (1 hour later)

If it is an infection, wouldn't it feel soft or spongy? Because it's not, it's solid.
Thank you in advance for taking the time to review and answer my question.

Follow up: Dr. Shinas Hussain (5 minutes later)

Also, could it be from the mesh even though the mesh was removed?

Answered by Dr. Shinas Hussain (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Go for a CT scan.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Some of the sutures and adherent parts of the mesh might have retained and can give rise to infection. The local inflammatory reaction around the mesh can give rise to hard feeling. The point that favours the possibility of infection is the foul smell.
However you can opt for a CT scan to make a definite diagnosis.
Wishing all the best

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Shinas Hussain (31 hours later)

Thank you for your response.
There is no smell, nor is the skin broken. The doctors that performed the hysterectomy and the ones that came into the O.R. afterward to do the hernia revision, really did a very good job. Albeit for the lump, the rest is rather remarkable, I know I'm no surgeon nor do I claim to be but from my perspective, taking into consideration my size, and all the work they had to go through. First the large mass (grapefruit size) on my ovary, then fixing the hernia (the right way) and removing the mesh and subsequent infection. Being left with a twenty inch scar down my belly is the least of my worries. But the lump that's got me worried, and I plan on seeing my PCP Monday a.m. But I have another related question, this past week while I was laid up with muscle cramps, constipation, etc. which is still going on, I began to get these sharp, intense, stabbing pains that initially began in my shins and upper calves, moved down to my heals and ankles and became more intense, now it's in the tops, sides, toes, and bottoms of my feet. It's excruciating what could it be from? And what can I do to soothe my feet? I'm not a diabetic, but I do have non alcohol fatty liver disease.

Answered by Dr. Shinas Hussain (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Given

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Two possibilities are peripheral vascular disease and neuropathic pain.
As a first line management you can take analgesics like tramadol for pain relief.
Spine related problems like prolapsed disc and nerve compression can also cause similar symptoms.
If symptoms persist, it is better to consult a physician and get evaluated.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj