Am I a Victim of Defective Transvaginal Mesh?

 Posted on September 11, 2013 in Defective Medical Devices

A net-like implant made of plastic that is put into the vagina is raising concerns around the country due to patient complications. The mesh was created to alleviate pelvic organ prolapse as well as stress urinary incontinence, two issues that tend to affect women after childbirth, menopause, or a hysterectomy. Pelvic organ prolapse involves the weakening of pelvic muscles, causing the organs to drop into the vagina. Unfortunately, this mesh creation has cause serious pain and problems for many patients, many of whom are now taking legal action.

The transvaginal implant procedure was developed for its ease in comparison with abdominal insertion, but many of these products are not reliable or safe for the patient. Some common problems for patients who have undergone a transvaginal mesh procedure include organ perforation, vaginal tissue erosion, and infection. Even though many women came forward to report their issues, for many the manufacturer did not act quickly enough. Currently, there are approximately 23,000 lawsuits filed filed just in West Virginia, with additional suits pending in other states.

Although some physicians opt for the transvaginal mesh procedure because it is less invasive than other surgeries, there are higher rates of complications for patients going through the process. Between 2006 and 2011, the Food and Drug Administration received more than 4,000 reports of complications in transvaginal mesh patients. Although the agency had previously noted that such complications were rare, after collecting this data, the FDA amended its statement to note that increasing numbers of reports validated the strength of concerns.

Patients suffering complications from transvaginal mesh might experience nerve damage, bleeding, and severe pain. Some patients may even require additional surgery to correct mistakes. If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of a defective medical device, obtain the guidance of an experienced Illinois personal injury lawyer immediately.