Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuits, Verdicts Hit Nationwide

The first transvaginal mesh implant lawsuit has reached a verdict in California and the outcome looks good for plaintiffs.

Many women claim to have suffered injury due to transvaginal mesh implants used to treat pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence. This initial trial was intended to gauge the value of these claims on a large scale. From that, the industry can determine how much each case is likely to cost.

If the California case is any indicator, these cases will cost a lot.

The jury awarded the plaintiff, Christine Scott, $5 million for pain and suffering due to the 9 revision surgeries required after her transvaginal mesh implant, reports The Sacramento Bee.

Her husband was also awarded $500,000 for the loss of intimacy the defective product caused.

Another trial is scheduled in New Jersey for April 2013 but many women have come forward to report dangerous side effects from the device. The side effects were reported as rare in 2008 but a new warning issued in 2011 revealed that they are much more common than previously stated, reports The Bell Law Firm.

The FDA initially approved the devices for sale, despite findings that the device could cause serious complications.

Despite the large number of women who have suffered injury the FDA has still not issued a recall for the products, according to Drug Watch. But that may change given the outcome of this case.

The jury award is also a message to manufacturer's that claims may result in a hefty cost for defendants. That price tag could be an incentive for cases to settle before trial.

If you have had surgery for a pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence, check with your doctor about whether transvaginal mesh was used. If you're experiencing symptoms you believe are caused by the mesh, there are attorneys specializing in these devices who can help you get compensation.

This first transvaginal mesh lawsuit certainly won't be the last. It opens the doors for other couples who have been adversely affected by the device's side effects.

Related Resources:

• Vaginal Mesh Products Prove Faulty (FindLaw)
• Pelvic Mesh Manufacturer Endo Pharma Faces Products Liability (The Philadelphia Personal Injury Law Blog)
• Transvaginal Mesh Implant Attorney in Atlanta, GA - Childers, Schlueter & Smith, LLC