pelvic mesh

...now browsing by tag

 
 

Pelvic Mesh Lawsuits are on the Rise

Monday, September 3rd, 2012

If you’re considering options for pelvic organ repair or stress urinary incontinence, there are a few to choose from.  Each comes with its own set of benefits and risks.  Not knowing these risks, could put your body unnecessarily in danger though, which is exactly what has been happening lately with women who chose pelvic mesh as their treatment method.

As a whole, pelvic mesh has been tested and studied and is considered a common option for treatment.  However, that does not mean there aren’t risks involved.  Those risks could include permanent physical harm.  Some women have reported injury as a result of their pelvic mesh implants and are filing suit against the companies who made the product.  These suits accuse companies of underreporting the risks of using pelvic mesh implants and seek damages for the pain and suffering and medical costs associated with the injuries.  These women reported injuries such as physical deformity, mesh erosion, damage to the bladder and other pelvic organs, physical deformity, pain during intercourse and other actions associated with pelvic use, and related permanent injuries.  The damage they are seeking will pay for surgeries, medication, treatments, and both physical and mental pain and suffering. While the companies themselves may not have made the risks clear, the FDA did put out a statement last year warning the public of risks, including those mentioned in the suit as well as bleeding, organ perforation, neuro-muscular issues, vaginal scarring, and vaginal wall shrinkage.  Though transvaginal mesh devices are common treatments for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence, they are more risky than other treatment methods.

If you’re suffering from one of these conditions, you should consider an alternative treatment option before settling on a pelvic mesh device.  If you already have one of these implants, pay careful attention to your body.  If you feel prolonged pain or discomfort, speak with a physician immediately and don’t wait for any damage to become permanent.

 

– Yvonne S. Thornton, M. D., M. P. H.