Mesh Lawsuits Reach Settlement
Transvaginal mesh (TVM) manufacturer Endo International of Dublin, Ireland and Malvern, Pennsylvania, the parent company of American Medical Systems, which distributes TVM implants in Arkansas and across the U.S., has agreed to settle about 20,000 mesh lawsuits against it for $830 million. The lawsuits claim that the devices are defective and unreasonably dangerous.
Transvaginal mesh is also called a vaginal patch, sling or tape. It is permanently implanted to reinforce vaginal walls for repair of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) or stress urinary incontinence. The FDA has previously warned of possible risks involved with TVM and has asked surgeons to “carefully consider all treatment options and make sure that their patients are properly informed of potential complications from surgical mesh. Mesh is a permanent implant. Complete removal may not be possible and may not result in complete resolution of complications.”
Complications alleged in the mesh lawsuits can include but are not limited to: recurrent bladder and urinary tract infections, chronic severe pelvic pain and urinary incontinence. Symptoms can include vaginal discharge and bleeding, pain during sex, feeling as if something is protruding from your vagina or leaking urine. Other symptoms have also been noted.
Transvaginal mesh can be either synthetic or natural. It can erode into the walls of the vagina, bladder or intestine. Muscles can pull the mesh, causing considerable pain and a predisposition to infection. The mesh can also shrink after implantation resulting in tightening and shortening of the vagina and severe pain.
According to mesh lawsuits and medical reports, the most recurrent cause of mesh failure and mesh lawsuits in Arkansas is erosion. Although removal of the device can help, mesh can often become embedded into the vaginal tissue and can make removal difficult or even impossible. This can make the condition and its symptoms permanent and very painful. On July 13, 2011, the FDA published a Public Health Notification of Serious Complications Associated With Transvaginal Placement of Surgical Mesh. The day after the Endo International settlement was announced, the FDA elevated transvaginal mesh devices in Arkansas and across the U.S. from moderate risk devices to high risk devices, which means TVM implants will now have to undergo pre-market approval.
If you or a loved one has had to deal with severe injury that could be due to a transvaginal mesh implant, contact Attorney Group for Arkansas today to discuss your legal options. You could be eligible to receive compensation for your pain and suffering. We can help answer your questions and connect you with an affiliated attorney who can help you seek compensation. Contact us today for your free consultation.
