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Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is when the muscles around the vaginal canal weaken. This weakening results in some abdominal organs such as the bladder, uterus or bowel to fall into the vagina. Transvaginal mesh is used to hold the organs up. It cradles them in a way to keep them from falling.

The mesh used to hold the organs up comes in a variety of shapes. Also where it is placed depends on the specific needs of the patient.

Stress Urinary Incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the more common reason that mesh is used. SUI is when the bladder leaks urine usually when you cough sneeze or laugh. In this case, the mesh is used to hold up the urethra.

These types of surgeries usually use mesh called Bladder slings or vaginal tape.

Complications, Side Effects, and Revision Surgery

Transvaginal mesh surgery does present risks. The FDA reported in 2011 that side effects and complications are "not rare" They also indicated that this mesh is not more effective than other methods and it might expose patients to greater risk. (Footnote 1)

Some of the more severe complications include Mesh Erosion, Pain during intercourse and organ perforation. Surgery is required to repair mesh erosion and organ perforation. It is a difficult operation because the body grows into and around the mesh over time making removing it a complicated process.

tvm1Lawsuits and Verdicts:

$5.7 Million in California in 2012.  The first verdict against a mesh manufacturer was in the State of California.

$3.27 Million in September 2014 in West Virginia Federal Court

$2 Million July 2013 against Bard in West Virginia Federal Court

$18 Million in November 2014 against Boston Scientific for several plaintiffs.

$11 Million verdict in 2013 in New Jersey against Ethicon.

$12.5 Million in late 2015 in a Philadelphia trial against Ethicon

$13.5 Million in Early 2016 in another case that went to trial in Philadelphia.

All of these are cases that went to a jury trial over the last several years. There are several cases set for trial around the country including a handful in Philadelphia. The Federal Court in West Virginia has also recently announced that it would be remanding cases back to some federal courts for trial.

Client Questions and Answers

General Transvaginal Mesh Questions about the Products and Initial Surgery

Side Effects and Complications Including Bladder Sling Removal Surgery

General Questions about Mesh and Implants:

Common Legal Questions

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