Drug Injury Lawyers Blog
Hernia mesh is a medical device used to repair hernias by either covering the hernia or acting as a plug. Hundreds of thousands of hernia surgeries are performed annually; some use hernia mesh and some do not. In most of these surgeries, patients recover quickly and little to no complications arise. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received numerous reports of complications involving hernia mesh.
The FDA has reported various complications associated with hernia mesh products, including intestinal adhesions (occurs when parts of the intestine adhere to the mesh), reactions to the mesh, infection, severe and chronic pain, injuries to organs and nerves, and the need for revision surgery. Although most of these complications have been linked to hernia mesh products that have already been taken off the market, some products are still being used today. If you have been injured by hernia mesh or any other type of medical device, contact a Boston defective medical products lawyer today.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when part of an organ, typically the intestine, pushes through a weakened spot in the groin or abdomen. The most obvious hernia symptom is a visible bulge in the abdomen or groin area. It is often painful. Additional symptoms include bloating and constipation, back pain, and bloody bowel movements. Hernias are often caused by activities that require overexertion, such as lifting, carrying, or pushing heavy objects. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a hernia, including obesity, smoking, and age. If you think you may be suffering from a hernia, contact your health care provider immediately.
Types of Hernia Mesh Linked to Injuries
There are multiple types of hernia mesh associated with complications, but most lawsuits involve the following four types:
Ethicon Physiomesh: Recalled in 2016, Ethicon Physiomesh was linked to a high rate of failure. The company has demanded the return of all unused inventory, and has no plans of bringing the product back to market. Atrium C-Qur Mesh: This polypropylene mesh product has been linked to multiple complications. In 2012, the FDA issued a warning to the manufacturer, claiming it had failed to respond to and investigate complaints. If you have been injured by an Atrium C-Qur Mesh product, contact a Boston injury lawyer today.
Kugel Hernia Mesh Patches: Multiple Kugel hernia products have been recalled following reports of injuries. A coil ring within the mesh may break, causing internal injuries and severe pain.
AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix: A hernia patch manufactured from human cadaver tissue, the AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix has been linked to multiple complications. Apparently, the patch requires pre-stretching, a crucial step which was not effectively communicated to health care providers. When proper pre-stretching does not occur, the patch can expand after implantation, causing severe pain and injuries.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Defective Medical Product Attorneys Serving All of Massachusetts
If you have been injured due to hernia mesh or any other type of medical product, contact the skilled legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP. We have been protecting the rights of accident and injury victims for more than 50 years. If the negligence of a medical product manufacturer has caused you harm, that company should be held accountable for its actions. Our experienced, knowledgeable attorneys have an impressive track record of obtaining compensation for clients. You may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages. If you’ve been injured, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
