Transvaginal mesh is a type of surgical mesh inserted through the vagina, commonly used to treat two conditions suffered by many women – pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). After the stress of childbirth, the organs in the pelvis can prolapse or sag into the walls of the vagina, causing pain, discomfort and other complications. During transvaginal mesh surgery, a transvaginal mesh is implanted inside of the vagina where it is used as a bladder or pelvic swing. The mesh is designed to strengthen and support the pelvic floor muscles.
Types of Injuries Related to Transvaginal Mesh
Complications reported by the FDA as related to transvaginal implants are extensive and include:
- Vaginal mesh erosion
- Pain on a daily basis as well as during sexual intercourse
- Infection
- Urinary problems
- Bleeding
- Recurrent prolapse and/or incontinence
- Vaginal Scarring
- Vaginal Shrinkage
- Emotional problems
- Nerve damage
- Bowel, bladder and blood vessel perforation during insertion
From 2008 to 2010, seven deaths were reported that were linked to POP repairs. Investigations into these deaths revealed that three were related to the procedure for placing the mesh; two bowel perforations and one hemorrhage. Four of the deaths were caused by medical complications after surgery.
Transvaginal mesh surgery can make it painful for women to sit, walk and have sexual intercourse. In many instances, hospitalization is required. Treatment of the various side effects can include surgical procedures, IV therapy, blood transfusions and drainage of hematomas. Some women have had multiple operations to remove the mesh, but it is not always possible to reverse transvaginal mesh surgery.
FDA Warnings Regarding Vaginal Mesh
In October 2008, the FDA issued a Public Health Notification to let doctors and patients know of the problems associated with using surgical mesh to treat POP. Between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2010, there were 1,503 Medical Device Reports about the adverse effects of POP repairs using surgical meshes. In 2011, the FDA updated its statement to warn patients and doctors that complications from transvaginal mesh for the surgical treatment of POP are not rare.
Although transvaginal mesh surgery is less invasive than more traditional treatments for POP and SUI, it also carries higher complication rates. In 2011, the FDA reported 4,000 cases with complications as a result of transvaginal mesh over a six year period.
Contact an Experienced Transvaginal Mesh Attorney Today
Many women who have suffered from complications due to transvaginal mesh have filed lawsuits against the makers of transvaginal mesh used in their operations. Most of the lawsuits blame the manufacturers of the mesh, not the surgeons who implanted the transvaginal mesh. A woman who files a transvaginal mesh lawsuit may be able to recover money to compensate for suffering, pain, medical expenses resulting from pain or suffering related to transvaginal mesh, lost wages and other damages. It is important to note that there are hundreds of women who have filed transvaginal mesh lawsuits without suing their doctors.
At Principal Law Group, we understand the complications and painful side effects and can help you to better understand your rights. We are experts in the law regarding POP surgery using transvaginal mesh. Call us today for a consultation.