Surgeries for hernia repairs are extremely common in the United States. In fact, about 500,000 surgical repairs are performed annually. Unfortunately, the hernia mesh devices used in many repairs are linked to multiple serious injuries, including organ perforation and bowel obstruction. If you have been harmed due to a mesh implant, the information below will help you determine whether to seek the counsel of a Boston hernia mesh injury lawyer.
Hernia mesh works by covering or “plugging” the areas of weakened muscle in the abdomen. There are several different types of hernia mesh, including those made from synthetic materials and those made from biologic materials. Synthetic mesh is typically made of polypropylene, composite mesh, or polyester fibers whereas biologic mesh is derived from animal or even human tissue.
Complications Related to Hernia Mesh Products
Although most injuries are linked to synthetic hernia mesh, any type of mesh can cause medical complications. The most common problems arising from mesh implants include:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Hernia recurrence
- Adhesion to body tissues
- Encapsulation of mesh
- Folding of mesh following placement
- Mesh erosion
- Adhesion to the bowel or other organs
- Bowel perforation
- Revision surgery
- Chronic pain
If you are experiencing inflammation or pain following the placement of a hernia mesh product, seek medical attention immediately.
What Types of Hernia Mesh Products are Linked to the Most Injuries?
Just about every type of hernia mesh on the market has some risk of failure or injury, but the following types and brands account for most lawsuits.
- Ethicon Physiomesh: The FDA approved physiomesh without clinical trials because it was “similar” to other kinds of mesh already on the market. Johnson & Johnson voluntarily withdrew physiomesh products from the market in 2016 due to the high risk of hernia recurrence and the potential need for revision surgery. Lawsuits allege that the unique coating on physiomesh products is not bio-compatible and can result in serious medical complications.
- Kugel Hernia Patch: Following its recall in 2005, C.R. Bard has been at the center of thousands of lawsuits claiming that kugel patches endangered the lives of patients. From bowel obstruction to organ perforations, the kugel patch has been linked to more serious complications than any other hernia mesh product. If you have been injured by a kugel hernia patch, it is in your best interest to seek the counsel of an experienced MA hernia mesh injury lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
- Atrium C-Qur Mesh: Although it hasn’t been officially recalled, many surgeons have stopped using c-qur mesh because of the high risk of infections, allergic reactions, and bowel obstructions. In addition, lawsuits allege that this type of mesh is extremely difficult to remove once it becomes attached to the bowel.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Hernia Mesh Injury Lawyers
If you have been injured by any type of defective or dangerous medical product, the skilled injury team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. At Altman & Altman, LLP, we have been protecting the rights of injury victims for more than 50 years. Our knowledgeable attorneys will analyze the details of your case and position you for the best possible outcome. We have an impressive track record of obtaining compensation for clients, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights. When medical device manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies put profits before the health and safety of patients, they should be held accountable for their actions. If you’ve been injured, we can help. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.