Transvaginal Mesh Devices under Fire for Causing Medical Complications

Transvaginal mesh, otherwise known as vaginal mesh or surgical mesh, has been used for years in urogynecologic procedures to repair weakened or damaged tissue. Typically, vaginal mesh is permanently implanted to treat pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence.

However, as a medical device, transvaginal mesh has a rocky history. The very first vaginal mesh implant marketed in the U.S. was approved by the FDA, but was voluntarily recalled shortly thereafter amidst reports that women were experiencing serious complications. Eventually, FDA approval for this product was pulled. But, in the meantime, several similar products made by other companies had received FDA approval under the 510(k) clearance process that allows items similar to those previously approved to be marketed.

While approval for the original transvaginal mesh product was revoked, similar vaginal mesh products continued to be implanted into thousands of American women. Now, transvaginal mesh implant problems are not confined to a single brand, and hundreds of injured women are turning to Massachusetts vaginal mesh attorneys to collect compensation from makers of the defective devices.

Dangers Have Not Led To Full Recall

Reported complications from transvaginal mesh implants include severe discomfort, painful intercourse, erosion of vaginal tissue, bleeding, infection and scarring. Simply removing the surgical mesh is more difficult than it sounds: tissue grows into the mesh remarkably well. Even after multiple removal surgeries, some women have still reported symptoms from remaining transvaginal mesh fragments.

The FDA has made recommendations to patients and healthcare providers to consider alternatives to vaginal mesh, and to be watchful for early signs of complications in women who have received implants. But, the FDA has announced no plans to issue a sweeping recall. In 2010, nearly 300,000 women received transvaginal mesh implants.

Legal Remedies for Women Injured By Faulty Vaginal Mesh

Women harmed by faulty vaginal mesh devices and their loved ones may be entitled to compensation for, among other things, medical bills, pain and suffering, and wages lost due to an inability to work. Currently, there are over 600 lawsuits pending against manufacturers of transvaginal mesh implants.

If you have been treated with the use of vaginal mesh and are facing complications, contact a defective medical device attorney today to schedule a consultation.