Transvaginal Surgical Mesh Lawsuit
The FDA has recently released a warning regarding transvaginal mesh complications following a surgical mesh procedure. If you have had this type of procedure, or if this procedure has been recommended for you, it is important to be aware of the governmental concerns and please contact us for the latest transvaginal surgical mesh lawsuit news and filing deadlines.
A transvaginal mesh is a plastic mesh device that is used to reinforce a repair in the body. Depending on the problem, the mesh can be inserted through the abdomen or through the vagina, with the latter called transvaginally.
Transvaginal Mesh and POP
Transvaginal mesh is often used to bolster weakened muscle tissue, particularly among women with pelvic organ prolapse, or POP. This condition actually occurs fairly frequently, in 30-50% of women, but only a small percent actually exhibit symptoms. POP occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, urethra or bladder, shift downward toward and even into the vagina. This shift often occurs as the muscles in the pelvic area loosen, often due to stress from repeated pregnancies or vaginal deliveries. Organs can also shift after a hysterectomy, as the organs have more area to move. Changing hormones in aging women can also affect POP.
When POP occurs and the organs drop downward, patients can have a variety of problems including a feeling of pressure, back pain, incontinence, constipation or pain during intercourse.
Mild cases of POP may be treated with Kegels, an exercise that strengthens the pelvic muscles, or with lifestyle changes to reduce weight or decrease the intake of caffeinated beverages, which act as diuretics.
In more severe cases, doctors may perform surgery to repair weak muscles, inserting transvaginal mesh to make that weak area stronger.
Transvaginal Mesh Failure Complications
The FDA found widespread problems suffered by patients who had a surgery mesh procedure for POP, with over 1000 cases of injuries or death. During the surgery, some patients experienced problems when the mesh device punctured the bladder, bowel or a nearby blood vessel. Other patients had complications once the mesh had been implanted, but later eroded. This erosion caused pain, new in incidences of incontinence, intercourse pain and organ prolapse.
Because the mesh is intended to a permanent implantation, it becomes intertwined with the muscle tissues and is very difficult to remove even when problems arise. As a result of the numerous concerns regarding the transvaginal mesh procedure, the FDA has said that this process is a high risk, and that other methods should be found to complete the repairs without using mesh.
Nationwide Surgical Mesh Lawsuit Help
If you have had transvaginal mesh surgery, we encourage you to contact us with your story. We are investigating claims by patients who believe the manufacturers of the mesh devices should be held responsible for the injuries and damage that have resulted. For a free, confidential and no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal options, contact us today. There is a limited time to file a transvaginal mesh lawsuit based on statute of limitations. Please contact us at your earliest convenience.