Transvaginal mesh implants have caused complications for hundreds of thousands of women. These devices are used to treat pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence, but have been found to cause painful injuries. The devices can erode into the surrounding tissue, causing infection, damage to the bladder and vagina, lower back pain, vaginal bleeding, and more. Many women with these devices have filed lawsuits alleging that the devices cause organ damage and pain.
In recent months, more than 75 such lawsuits have been settled by C.R. Bard, Inc., one manufacturer of many who creates transvaginal mesh implants. In 2008, the FDA released its initial warning against the use of these devices. This warning was met with over 1,000 reports of injury caused by the mesh in a three year period following the warning. By July 2011, over 2,800 reports of adverse effects were sent to the FDA. The FDA issued an alert that the devices were no longer considered more effective than traditional repair without the mesh.
The US District Court has seen more than 5,700 lawsuits filed against C.R. Bard, Inc. More lawsuits have been filed against other manufacturers including:
- Ethicon, Inc.
- American Medical Systems, Inc.
- Cook Medical, Inc.
- Coloplast Corp.
- Boston Scientific Corp.
- Johnson & Johnson
If you have suffered injury due to a transvaginal mesh implant manufactured by one of these companies, you might be entitled to damages. A skilled medical product liability lawyer can help you build your case and will fight for your rights. Your suffering should be compensated.
The latest settlements have had 75 cases dismissed due to a settlement between the plaintiffs and C.R. Bard, Inc. In April 2017, another 147 cases were settled and dismissed by the court. It is estimated that more than $200 million has been spent by C.R. Bard, Inc. to resolve similar cases, but all settlement amounts have remained undisclosed.
Symptoms of Transvaginal Mesh Injuries
Hundreds of thousands of women have received transvaginal mesh implants to treat pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence, and thousands have reported injuries related to the devices. These implants are at risk for device erosion, which can cause a number of issues.
The symptoms of transvaginal mesh failure can include:
- Pain
- Infection
- Organ and tissue erosion
- Organ perforation
- Recurrence of the initial problem
- Urinary problems
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Bleeding
If have a transvaginal mesh implant and you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult with your physician to ensure that your device is still intact. These symptoms can be a sign of a serious condition, including device failure.
If you have been injured by a transvaginal mesh implant, you may be able to claim compensation. Our Kansas City product liability attorneys are here to offer you the high-quality, individualized attention that your case deserves. At Bertram & Graf, L.L.C., our team is committed to building strong relationships with our clients, maintaining frequent communication, and helping our clients to understand their options when it comes to their claim.
Contact the offices of Bertram & Graf, L.L.C. today to schedule a free case evaluation.