{"id":353384,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:55","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/product-liability\/transvaginal-mesh-injury-overview.html"},"modified":"2024-02-20T13:12:11","modified_gmt":"2024-02-20T18:12:11","slug":"transvaginal-mesh-injury-overview","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/transvaginal-mesh-injury-overview.html","title":{"rendered":"Transvaginal Mesh Injury Overview"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Transvaginal Mesh Injury Overview<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/christie-nicholson-j-d\/\">Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/oni-harton-j-d\/\">Oni Harton, J.D.<\/a>\n                | Last reviewed\n        <time>\n                            February 20, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <div data-testid=\"loading-message\" data-fui-focus-visible=\"\">\n<div id=\"chatMessageResponser2f\" class=\"___1yop6mf f336tjw f9ijwd5 fz7g6wx fod5ikn f1s184ao\" aria-live=\"assertive\">\n<div class=\"___1j4t0a1 f1lmfglv f1abmfm4\" aria-hidden=\"false\" data-testid=\"markdown-reply\" data-message-type=\"Chat\">\n<div class=\"___stpibi0 f22iagw f1vx9l62 fk15e71 f1k953kz f137keqj f1rncccw f1stllg3 f1w4kmmc f1tric3v f10dk5ic fx8cdsv f16nlwsl f1eookvz fhjrts3 fqugt2f f10km5jb f18d18k8 f1v1vhmp f1hdmul3 f198vjnp f2dshw1 fjpjndq fnmj2pj ffrrb40 f1mon110 fhajzam fimndk6 fxv4dng fb1rn9k f59wlhv f1xmfh30 f18yf5o5 fmr6chf fw8qy2q ff161sd f1qr7t77 f1yyogn1 foogchg fp5872b f1tpb8gf f1hdgrc8 f1vatr43 frkxccd f9pdzkb f158oiaz ft5kggy f5l4ui7 f13j03li f18xdoka f8off4e f1go6zfc f128n2ra f1jpxw2j f1lwd9n0 fy0b8hm f1g2633v fx4kvgi fkvolse f1gxrt3a f1os76ua f1js9cnw f1g87ej0 freluf8 f1yggaq6 f2i3chp f1151osp florpoh f35kzfz ftp9m57 f1e288vi fz62hnz fixvuys f1nmofwh fc1c6mv f18a2er7 fhvkrdl fhxnn68 f1oce4bo fvhlfan f7tc0t0 f1ngf1n2 ffrzq6x f1yjiq2m f1aqdgql f1huvaf f10ij78l f1k94sa4 fkmfumq f1jvzkyl f1eu24ob f1xbfc1f fmf0lwf f107dsy8 f3w566c f4648sl f13zpkng f7unjfp f8p1rz fzu6h1w f1i1bi6h f1smo7hi f1sk1xod f1kgogdq f1gjktkp ft608jz f19dd9cz fg3xr24 fhd155k f1b8gl2e fg4b9ou flb4lo fdicbfk fgwcyh1 f1jbds0d f1fb9uea f1stuka4 fcrtu6g fwqh0xn f11w66yg f6e0e65 f1vvgu0 f1607507 f1m9bycv f1ntoah8 f1b694rt faql4r2 fpjuhzh fmavl6h\">\n<p>Transvaginal mesh has been linked to serious complications. Due to these risks, the FDA banned its use for pelvic organ prolapse in 2019, and many patients have filed lawsuits against manufacturers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Transvaginal mesh (TVM) is a flexible patch implanted in the vaginal wall to strengthen its structure. Surgeons used to employ pelvic mesh to correct two conditions:\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.fda.gov\/MedicalDevices\/ProductsandMedicalProcedures\/ImplantsandProsthetics\/UroGynSurgicalMesh\/ucm262299.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pelvic organ prolapse<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.nlm.nih.gov\/medlineplus\/ency\/article\/000891.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">stress urinary incontinence<\/a>. But the FDA ordered all device manufacturers to stop marketing and distributing\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/medical-devices\/implants-and-prosthetics\/urogynecologic-surgical-mesh-implants#Uses%20For%20Surgical%20Mesh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">transvaginal mesh for pelvic organ prolapse<\/a>\u00a0in April 2019.<\/p>\n<p>Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a weakening of the pelvic muscles that allows organs to slip out of place. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the loss of bladder control from coughing, sneezing, exercise, and other strenuous activities.<\/p>\n<p>In recent years, researchers have linked TVM surgical mesh to several serious complications. As a result, many patients have filed product liability lawsuits against mesh manufacturers.<\/p>\n<p>This article offers an overview of these complications. It also discusses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Types of mesh<\/li>\n<li>Associated injuries<\/li>\n<li>Legal options for affected individuals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can also talk to a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/products-liability-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">product liability attorney<\/a> near you for targeted legal advice. An attorney can determine if you have a valid claim and recommend next steps. If you pursue legal action, your lawyer will fight for fair compensation for your injuries.<\/p>\n<h2>What Is Transvaginal Mesh?<\/h2>\n<p>Medical professionals have used surgical mesh since the 1950s. Surgeons initially used it for hernia repair and other reconstructive surgeries. In the 1970s, doctors started using mesh to help with pelvic organ prolapse.<\/p>\n<p>Around that same time, surgeons began using mesh products to help with stress urinary incontinence. TVM is a net-like material surgeons use to strengthen and reconstruct weak pelvic walls.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the type of mesh your doctor uses, the material may remain in your body permanently. Other mesh devices absorb into your body and gradually weaken.<\/p>\n<h2>Manufacturers of Transvaginal Mesh<\/h2>\n<p>Several companies manufacture and distribute transvaginal mesh. Some major manufacturers include Boston Scientific, C.R. Bard, and Ethicon (a subsidiary of Johnson &amp; Johnson). Another company, American Medical Systems, was one of the first manufacturers to settle a large class of TVM lawsuits.<\/p>\n<p>Most transvaginal mesh devices carry the risk of serious complications. As a result, plaintiffs have filed personal injury lawsuits against almost all pelvic mesh product manufacturers.<\/p>\n<h2>Types of Transvaginal Mesh<\/h2>\n<p>There are three main types of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.consumersafety.org\/medical-device-lawsuits\/vaginal-mesh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">transvaginal mesh products<\/a>. Two contain synthetic (man-made) materials. The third contains animal products.<\/p>\n<p>The three types of surgical mesh devices include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Non-absorbable<\/b>: These stay in your body forever. Non-absorbable meshes don&#8217;t break down as easily as absorbable meshes. This doesn&#8217;t mean your doctor won&#8217;t need to perform revision surgeries. Sometimes, patients experience more severe problems with non-absorbable mesh because it doesn&#8217;t disappear over time.<\/li>\n<li><b>Absorbable<\/b>: This is another synthetic type of mesh. Over time, your body absorbs the mesh material. When this happens, you may need additional surgeries or treatment.<\/li>\n<li><b>Animal-derived<\/b>: These TVM contain animal materials, usually from a pig or a cow. These are also absorbable and weaken over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Regardless of your TVM type, there is a risk of adverse health consequences.<\/p>\n<h2>U.S. Food and Drug Administration and TVM<\/h2>\n<p>The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) didn&#8217;t have the authority to regulate medical devices until 1976. Any devices already on the market were grandfathered in. At first, the FDA categorized TVM as a Class II medical device. This meant they posed a risk to human health, but the benefits outweighed the risks. It wasn&#8217;t until 2019 that the FDA reclassified the device as a Class III, high-risk medical device.<\/p>\n<p>In 2019, however, the FDA declared that manufacturers could no longer market TVM for POP. They could still distribute the devices for SUI. Companies had to withdraw their TVM for pelvic organ prolapse products from the market immediately.<\/p>\n<p>One of the primary reasons the FDA issued a mandatory withdrawal was because of the severe complications they caused. We will discuss these complications and the ensuing lawsuits below.<\/p>\n<h2>Common TVM Complications<\/h2>\n<p>Before the FDA ordered a withdrawal of TVM for POP, it issued several warnings about these products. In 2008 (updated in 2011), the FDA warned that the complications of TVM were frequent. They often required extensive medical treatment. In many cases, patients had to undergo revision surgeries due to these severe complications.<\/p>\n<p>Not only were the devices dangerous, but many patients experienced a re-occurrence of POP or SUI. This made the FDA question the effectiveness of the procedures.<\/p>\n<h3>Mesh Erosion<\/h3>\n<p>One of the most common TVM complications is mesh erosion. This occurs when the mesh breaks down and erodes shortly after the surgeon places it in the patient&#8217;s body. Since the mesh fragments are entwined with the tissue, removing them can be complicated.<\/p>\n<h3>Organ Perforation<\/h3>\n<p>Organ perforation is another common side effect of TVM procedures. Sharp pieces of mesh left over from mesh erosion can slice and perforate nearby organs. This can cause internal bleeding. Due to the perforations, urine and fecal matter may also enter the body. Perforations can lead to severe infections.<\/p>\n<p>Patients who experience mesh erosion or organ perforation usually require extensive treatment. Treatment includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Surgical procedures<\/li>\n<li>IV therapy<\/li>\n<li>Blood transfusions<\/li>\n<li>Drainage of hematomas or abscesses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Transvaginal Mesh Injury Lawsuits<\/h2>\n<p>TVM complications can cause patients a great deal of pain. They severely impair patients&#8217; quality of life. Treatment for patient injuries can also result in substantial medical bills. This is why so many patients have filed transvaginal mesh injury lawsuits against the manufacturers.<\/p>\n<p>Plaintiffs have been suing the manufacturers of TVM for over 10 years. Below is a summary of the significant TVM lawsuits.<\/p>\n<h3>South Dakota Woman Sues Johnson &amp; Johnson<\/h3>\n<p>In 2013, a New Jersey jury\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/article\/idUSBRE91O0WI\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">awarded $3.35 million<\/a>\u00a0to a South Dakota woman who sued Johnson &amp; Johnson. The plaintiff alleged that the company did not adequately warn her doctor of the potential dangers of a vaginal mesh implant. She also claimed that the defendant misrepresented its product in brochures.<\/p>\n<h3>American Medical Systems Settles Thousands of Vaginal Mesh Lawsuits<\/h3>\n<p>Over the years, thousands of patients have sued American Medical Systems (AMS) for injuries due to TVM complications. The company settled most of these cases for undisclosed amounts. But AMS settled claims for publicly disclosed amounts in those instances.<\/p>\n<p>In 2013, a New Jersey jury awarded $11 million to a woman who said her injuries were due to defects in AMS&#8217; Gynecare Prolift mesh products.<\/p>\n<p>In 2014, American Medical Systems settled a lawsuit involving over 20,000 claimants for $830 million. The company had settled a prior claim for more than $54 million. Plaintiffs in these cases argued that AMS intentionally marked a dangerous product and failed to warn patients and doctors about the risks of its TVM.<\/p>\n<p>In February 2023, the United States Supreme Court upheld a verdict of more than $20 million a jury granted to the state of California. By February 2024, the company had resolved all but 194 cases pending in a federal multidistrict litigation.<\/p>\n<h3>C.R. Bard Settles Thousands of TVM Cases<\/h3>\n<p>In October 2014, C.R. Bard agreed to settle over 500 claims for just $21 million. The judge said it was unhappy with this low amount. It threatened the company that if it didn&#8217;t resolve all outstanding claims, it would face billions in jury verdicts.<\/p>\n<p>In December of that same year, C.R. Bard settled claims filed by attorneys general in 48 states for $60 million.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, in 2015, the mesh manufacturer settled the remaining 3,000 claims for $200 million.<\/p>\n<h3>Boston Scientific Settles More Than 95% of All Legal Claims<\/h3>\n<p>Like many other vaginal mesh manufacturers, Boston Scientific faced numerous lawsuits filed by the various states. In all, 47 states filed legal claims against the company. In 2021, the company settled these claims for $189 million.<\/p>\n<p>Before settling the state claims, Boston Scientific had settled 3,000 lawsuits in April 2015 for close to $120 million. That same year, the manufacturer resolved the remaining 350 lawsuits for an undisclosed amount.<\/p>\n<p>Boston Scientific faced claims both in the United States and Australia. In March 2023, the company paid more than $8 billion for TVM lawsuits. It settled another set of claims for over $105 million.<\/p>\n<h3>Coloplast Faces Lawsuits in West Virginia<\/h3>\n<p>In January 2014, Coloplast settled 400 lawsuits in the Southern District of West Virginia for $16 million. Coloplast has resolved all legal claims regarding TVM. They faced the second-fewest amount of lawsuits as compared to other TVM manufacturers.<\/p>\n<h2>Product Liability Law<\/h2>\n<p>Most TVM lawsuits involve the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/defective-medical-devices.html\">manufacturers or sellers of medical devices<\/a>. The courts may hold these parties liable for placing a dangerous or defective product on the market.<\/p>\n<p>Generally, people who suffer an injury from a defective medical device can sue any party in the distribution chain. This includes the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Designer<\/li>\n<li>Manufacturer<\/li>\n<li>Distributor<\/li>\n<li>Wholesaler<\/li>\n<li>Retailer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Successful claimants can recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In rare cases, the courts may also award the plaintiff punitive damages. This only happens when the judge wants to punish the defendant or make an example out of them.<\/p>\n<p>Under\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/what-is-product-liability.html\">product liability law<\/a>, a product must meet the consumer&#8217;s ordinary expectations. This means that it must be as safe as possible. Manufacturers must also warn consumers (patients) about any risks of their products.<\/p>\n<p>For example, a claimant bringing a transvaginal mesh lawsuit may argue that the mesh had a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/defects-in-design.html\">design defect<\/a>. They may claim the defendant designed the device, knowing it would erode over time. Plaintiffs can also claim that the defendants engaged in\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/defects-in-warnings.html\">defective marketing<\/a>\u00a0since they didn&#8217;t provide adequate warnings. After all, the device manufacturers marketed TVM as a long-term solution to several conditions.<\/p>\n<h2>Medical Malpractice<\/h2>\n<p>Medical device manufacturers aren&#8217;t the only ones who may be responsible for patient injuries. Surgeons and medical professionals who implant your mesh may be liable as well. For example, a doctor who improperly implants the mesh may be responsible for\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/medical-malpractice\/\">medical malpractice<\/a>. The same is true if the doctor was negligent in how they handled the surgery.<\/p>\n<p>A doctor may also be liable if they don&#8217;t disclose the possible risks and complications of transvaginal mesh implants.<\/p>\n<p>Your attorney could file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the medical professional in these cases. Depending on how egregious the doctor&#8217;s behavior was, you may be able to recover\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/personal-injury\/when-can-you-sue-for-punitive-damages\/\">punitive damages<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Class Action Lawsuits vs. Individual Lawsuits<\/h2>\n<p>One of the first steps for people wanting to file a transvaginal mesh lawsuit is deciding whether to join a class action suit or file a private lawsuit. Both have advantages and disadvantages.<\/p>\n<p>A\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/class-action-cases.html\">class action lawsuit<\/a>\u00a0involves multiple claimants with similar injuries who want to sue the same defendant. One advantage of a class action lawsuit is that plaintiffs don&#8217;t have to attend court proceedings.<\/p>\n<p>This is important for claimants who are still recuperating from revision surgery. It also benefits plaintiffs who want to stay out of the public eye. Due to their size, class action suits significantly impact society at large. Class action lawsuits alert the public to possible dangers.<\/p>\n<p>Private lawsuits, on the other hand, are filed by a single plaintiff. Claimants usually have a better chance of receiving a substantial jury verdict or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/resolution-before-trial-settlement.html\">settlement<\/a>. The plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit must split the settlement proceeds.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes, these cases involve hundreds or thousands of people. It can also take much longer for a class action lawsuit to resolve.<\/p>\n<h2>Filing a Transvaginal Mesh Surgery Claim: Get Legal Help<\/h2>\n<p>Filing a transvaginal mesh lawsuit can be difficult. It requires hours of research and in-depth knowledge of product liability law. Before moving forward with your vaginal mesh lawsuit, speak with a legal professional.<\/p>\n<p>You must file your claim before the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/statutes-of-limitations.html\">statute of limitations<\/a>\u00a0expires. In most states, you only have two or three years to file your transvaginal mesh case. Your attorney will need time to review and prepare your case. Don&#8217;t wait until the last minute to find a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/products-liability-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">product liability attorney<\/a>\u00a0near you today.<\/p>\n<p>Most product liability lawyers offer new clients a free case review. Visit FindLaw&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/drugs-medical-devices\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attorney directory<\/a> to find a lawyer in your area. 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was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    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class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help seek fair compensation on your behalf\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Medical device companies are well-resourced with teams of lawyers on their side\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    An attorney can help gather documentation and evidence to support your claim\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>An experienced attorney can increase your chances of success with your case. Many attorneys offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL3905\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input 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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/medical-malpractice.html\">\n                        Medical Malpractice Law\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-who-is-liable.html\">\n                        Car Accident Liability\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/can-i-sue-.html\">\n                        Can I Sue?\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/drugs-medical-devices\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Drugs and Medical Devices Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/products-liability-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Products Liability Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/birth-injury\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Birth Injury Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/medical-malpractice\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Medical Malpractice Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/consumer-protection\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Consumer Protection Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/wrongful-death-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wrongful Death Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Personal Injury Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw provides an overview of transvaginal mesh injuries. Learn about transvaginal mesh lawsuits and what to do if you&#8217;re hurt by a medical device.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":353191,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2734],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-353384","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-injury"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353384","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=353384"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353384\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353191"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=353384"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=353384"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=353384"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=353384"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=353384"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}