TRAM FLAP mesh causing digestive pain

I had a bi lateral tram flap in June 2010, so I am 4 months into a recovery that never seems to happen.  I have been referred by my PS to a Gastro. Dr. who has taken over my intestinal pain issues.  I cannot eat; when the food goes down it feels like broken glass.  He suspects that the mesh is causing a binding of my intestines.  He will do a CT scan, and also check my gall bladder.   I am so depressed and tired of being in pain.  I would really like to hear from any of this website about their problems with digestive pain after eating and other problems with the abdominal mesh.  My Gastro. Dr. say's the mesh may have to be removed.  What then?  Will I develop hernias?  I feel like I made such a bad decision choosing the TRAM, but after having already endured 3 previous breast reconstructions because of implant ruptures, I felt this would end any further breast surgeries.  Oh, what have I done to myself?!  

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

The mesh used for reinforcing the abdominal wall after a TRAM flap is placed above the posterior rectus sheath and is outside the abdominal cavity.  Since it is placed in a superficial location, I have never personally experienced or heard of patients with GI problems related to its placement.  The source of your GI problems does need investigation, but I question if removal of the mesh will solve your issues.