Medical complications from pelvic mesh

Surgically implanted mesh has been used for urogynecologic procedures in women who have experienced problems with POP (pelvic organ prolapse) or SUI (stress urinary incontinence). These two conditions are often caused by pregnancy and/or birth, hysterectomy, or as a result of the aging process.

For some women, these conditions resolve on their own. However, a surgical approach involving the implantation of pelvic mesh to provide relief from POP or SUI is an option chosen by many women. The pelvic mesh can be implanted transvaginally or abdominally and is used to reinforce a weakened vaginal wall for POP repair or to support the urethra or bladder neck in cases involving SUI repair.

While surgically implanted pelvic mesh has provided relief for some women, various manufacturers of the product are now under investigation for a variety of health concerns that have become associated with transvaginal mesh. Some of the common problems with the implanted mesh include:

  • Severe pain
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring and/or disfigurement
  • Painful intercourse
  • Urinary issues
  • Erosion of the mesh through the vagina
  • Shrinkage and contraction of the mesh
  • Infection
  • Penetration of the bladder and/or bowel
  • The need for multiple revision surgeries

In addition, many women have reported the reappearance for their POP or SUI after implantation of the mesh.

To date, thousands of pelvic mesh lawsuits have been filed in the U.S. against transvaginal mesh manufacturers on the behalf of women who have been harmed by these medical devices.

Are you a victim?

Women who have suffered medical complications from pelvic mesh implants may have legal recourse. In July of 2011, the FDA announced that women choosing to undergo POP repair with a surgical pelvic mesh may be at an increased risk for mesh complications vs women who opted for other surgical treatments. 

However, the manufacturers of the transvaginal meshes failed to provide adequate warnings about the increased risk. Therefore, women who have suffered complications from implanted pelvic meshes may be able to file a claim in order to get compensation for medical and hospital bills, loss of consortium, pain and suffering, as well as other damages.

Should you file a lawsuit? Lawyers across the country have been filing thousands of pelvic mesh lawsuits on the behalf of women who have suffered from complications from different transvaginal mesh products. Manufacturers may be found liable for failing to properly warn doctors and patients against the risk and complications associated with their pelvic mesh products. In addition, they may also be found liable for intentionally misleading consumers about the safety and efficacy of surgical mesh.

However, doctors and other medical professionals are also responsible for providing patients with all of the information necessary for them to make informed decisions regarding the risks of undergoing surgical procedures involving the mesh implant and have a duty of care to perform these types of surgeries within the standard of care.

Tell us about your case

If you have suffered from pelvic mesh problems, you may be entitled to compensation, regardless of the type of mesh product that was used in your surgery. Scott S. Harris, San Diego medical malpractice attorney, has been helping victims of medical malpractice for over 30 years.