The makers of several different models of mesh bladder sling devices have come under fire as they have been linked to serious physical injuries, including mesh erosion. Many female patients have responded by filing lawsuits against the companies that produce and develop these potentially harmful products. These lawsuits are filed on the grounds that the products were not sufficiently tested and studied with clinical trials prior to being used on real patients. The following companies all have products that have been linked to bladder sling mesh erosion: American Medical Systems, Boston Scientific, C. R. Bard, and Johnson & Johnson. Another company, Mentor, had its product ObTape removed from the market when it was linked to especially high rates of mesh erosion.
What is Bladder Sling Mesh Erosion?
A bladder sling/transvaginal mesh device is used in women with persistent cases of stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapsed in order to “permanently” lift affected organs and alleviate the pressure on the bladder that creates incontinence. In some cases, if the body does not respond favorable to this treatment, the bladder sling erodes and pushes its way through the vaginal wall into the vagina, bladder, and sometimes even the bowels or rectum. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration’s July of 2011 Safety Communication, mesh erosion is the most consistent frequently reported complication and requires surgery and hospitalization in order to correct.
Other Mesh Bladder Sling Complications
Although terrible in and of itself, mesh erosion is not the only complication that can occur following surgical treatment with a bladder sling. All of the following conditions and problems have been linked to transvaginal mesh surgical devices:
- Mesh contraction/shrinkage
- Vaginal Bleeding and discharge
- Neuro-muscular problems
- Pelvic Pain
- Extreme discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Emotional Problems
- Relapse of initial stress urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse
Talk to a Bladder Sling Attorney: File a Mesh Erosion Lawsuit
Did you suffer from mesh erosion or other complications following treatment with a bladder sling or other transvaginal mesh device? If so, call the Willis Law Firm today to find out if you are eligible for financial compensation through a mesh erosion lawsuit. We understand that it can be potentially embarrassing to discuss these sensitive women’s health issues, so we have female consultants ready to speak to you in complete confidence. All bladder sling cases are taken on a contingency fee basis, so you will not be responsible for any fees unless a recovery is made. Call us today.