Ethical principles for introducing device and/or mesh use into your practice

Limited evidence and regulatory gaps complicate decisions regarding the use of mesh devices in the surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. Although a manufacturer may have legal permission to market a product, this does not automatically mean that any use of the product is safe and effective. Therefore, surgeons are responsible for setting their own ethical standards when introducing new devices or technologies into their practice. This article outlines ethical principles to guide decisions concerning introducing mesh into your practice.