Anapol Weiss has been successfully litigating cases involving the use of defective transvaginal mesh (TVM) against various manufacturers, including Johnson & Johnson, Bard, Boston Scientific, and Coloplast. New cases are filed on an ongoing basis because these manufacturers continue to make TVM products even though they have paid enormous amounts out in settlements for women who were injured by TVM products in the past.
Purpose of Vaginal Mesh in Medical Procedures
Vaginal mesh may be used to help repair pelvic organ prolapse (POP), which occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and tissue become too weak to hold the organs in place, and stress urinary incontinence (SUI), which happens when pressure on the abdomen from activities like coughing, sneezing, or laughing causes urine leakage. Women are mostly susceptible to POP and SUI, due to contributing factors of pregnancy and childbirth. While symptoms of POP and SUI have certainly been bothersome to women for centuries, safer alternative treatment options exist. The risks of synthetic mesh placement simply do not outweigh the benefits of these procedures.
Known Complications with Transvaginal Mesh
TVM complications are very common and were known by the manufacturers for many years. Nonetheless, the severity and frequency of the well-known complications are continuously minimized by manufacturers and many of the implanting doctors who continue to use these devices in their clinical practice. Some of the complications include but are not limited to:
Vaginal Mesh Erosion
Non-absorbable synthetic surgical mesh, made of polypropylene, can break down or wear away over time. Part of the mesh may become exposed or protrude through the vagina, leading to excruciating pain. The mesh may even erode into the surrounding organs, such as the urethra, bladder, or rectum, causing an organ perforation. Shortening or tightening of the mesh (also known as contraction) over time can cause vaginal shortening, tightening, or pain.
Pain During Sexual Intercourse
An inflammatory response to the foreign material can lead to scar tissue and less mobility of the pelvic organs, leading to a sharp stabbing pain felt by the mesh recipient, as well as by a sexual partner.
Urinary Problems
Recurrence and sometimes worsening of stress urinary incontinence can occur after a mesh implant, as well as blood in the urine and an inability to empty the bladder due to lack of mobility between the pelvic organs.
Other Complications and Lasting Effects
Recurrent organ prolapse, chronic infections, bleeding, and persistent pain, as well as emotional problems due to strained relationships and embarrassment, are all complications related to the use of defective vaginal mesh products. Multiple surgeries are often needed to remove the mesh or correct other complications that occur after mesh placement.
Seeking Legal Support
If you or someone you know received a TVM implant and has suffered complications, please contact an experienced Anapol Weiss lawyer today.
