What is the Difference between Mesh and Sling?

The lawsuits in question here cover both transvaginal mesh and slings.  The terms are often used interchangeably, though they are distinct devices.

Slings, also sometimes called tape, are made from a mesh or lace-like material.  They are small in size, and are most often used in cases of stress urinary incontinence.

On the other hand, transvaginal mesh is more often used for pelvic organ prolapse repair.  Prolapse occurs when the walls of the vagina collapse and pull other organs such as the bladder, rectum, small bowel, or uterus into the vaginal opening.  Mesh is usually a much larger piece of material than a sling, as it is used to provide support for the prolapse.  These repairs are often more invasive than repairs for SUI.

As a patient now experiencing problems with your medical device, you may not know whether your doctor used a sling or mesh, or what specific brand was used.  This is okay.  Please still contact us for a free consultation regarding your injuries.  We can find out all the information that we need as we proceed with your case.