The latest statistics relating to transvaginal mass litigation show well over 400 cases pending. There are more to follow.
Trials for transvaginal mesh lawsuits started in December 2012. This whole process will likely take years to litigate, but justice is well worth waiting for in these cases, based on the number of women’s lives that have been drastically affected by this defective product.
The first of the big three consolidated lawsuits are: In re: American Medical Systems, Inc., Pelvic Repair System Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 2325), followed by In re: Ethicon, Inc., Pelvic Repair Systems Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 2327) and then In re: Boston Scientific Corp., Pelvic Repair Systems Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 2326). While it is good news that these trials are currently underway, it’s a sad commentary on the greed and callous attitudes of big name Pharma, that they would knowingly make and sell a product that harmed consumers; some so badly, they will never be the same again. The beginning of these trials means justice is one step closer.
Evidence at these trials is proving to the court that since 2011, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) knew about reported issues with the transvaginal meshes and bladder slings. The device was designed to treat pelvic organ prolapse — the result of weakened pelvic muscles that allow the pelvic organs to drop into the vagina. Ideally, the synthetic mesh/sling, implanted through the vagina, support those organs, pushing them back into place.
The FDA received multiple adverse reports about the mesh device detailing organ perforations, mesh erosion, severe pain, infections, bleeding and even death. The less severe problems included urinary incontinence, which it was supposed to help and constipation. The FDA was heard to say that serious complications with the use of this medical device were not rare. At that point, a huge red flag should have gone up for everyone, including surgeons using this product.
What is most disturbing in the extreme is the fact that transvaginal mesh kits have been an issue since at least 1999, when Boston Scientific recalled their ProteGen Sling after thousands of complaints. Then in 2006, another similar product, the ObTape, was discontinued by Mentor Corporation. For the whole sordid story, you might want to read the information here: http://www.bladderslingrecall.us.
Despite the overwhelming historical evidence that transvaginal mesh/slings were harmful and even deadly, they are still on the market today. In fact, GyneCare TVT and the Avaulta System are still on the market and still implanted on a daily basis; a fact that should concern millions of women in the U.S. today.
If you have been implanted with a mesh kit, and are experiencing problems, reach out and call a veteran Austin personal injury lawyer. There is no need to suffer and wonder how you will pay for your medical expenses, which may include more than one surgery. Consulting with an Austin personal injury lawyer will give you the information you need to make an informed decision about moving forward with a lawsuit.
Bobby Lee is an Austin personal injury lawyer for Lee, Gober and Reyna. If you need an Austin personal injury lawyer, contact an Austin personal injury attorney from Lee, Gober and Reyna. Visit RWLeelaw.com.
