Approximately one million hernia repair surgeries are completed each year in the United States, according to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). Chronic pain after the procedure happens in about 30 percent of patients.
In some cases, this pain can be attributed to a defective mesh that was used in the hernia repair process. If you are one of these affected patients, the manufacturer of the hernia mesh product should be held liable for the pain and suffering they have caused you and thousands of others.
As of February 2018, more than 54,000 hernia mesh lawsuits are pending in either state or federal courts and many victims have already received compensation. If you believe your pain after hernia surgery is potentially from defective hernia mesh, contact a qualified mass torts attorney right away. A hernia mesh lawyer could help provide next steps after the discovery of the harm you have suffered.
Common Reasons for Hernia Repairs
Surgical mesh is commonly used in hernia repair surgeries. In fact, in the 2000s surgical mesh was used in over 90 percent of groin-area hernia repairs. This mesh can be beneficial in many ways, as it can limit complications and speed recovery time.
However, complications can still occur with these surgeries. Some patients may have pain, infection, or even a reoccurrence of their hernia. Sometimes, these complications can be linked to defective mesh implants.
Symptoms of Mesh Failure
Mesh failure can present in various ways for each individual patient. Common symptoms of mesh failure include:
- Pain
- Internal bleeding
- Infection
- Recurring hernia at the surgical site
- A lump near the surgical site
- Soreness and warmth at the surgical site
- Fever, nausea, and vomiting
- Feeling bloated
What Products are Typically Recalled?
Developers and manufacturers of medical equipment and devices such as hernia mesh are responsible for making safe products. When a defective product is sold and used, a recall is usually issued by the FDA or the manufacturer. While this is the responsible thing to do, it is often too late to prevent thousands of patients from suffering due to a defective product that should not have been on the market in the first place
Physiomesh from Johnson & Johnson’s subsidiary Ethicon and C-Qur from Atrium Medical Corporation are just two of the hernia mesh products that are well-known for causing complications. Both were recalled under 21 CFR 7. Attorneys specializing in hernia mesh cases should know all about the risks these two products present and could help affected patients take stock of their injuries and seek compensation for them.
How a Hernia Mesh Attorney Could Help
If you suffered physical pain or complications—or even had to undergo another surgery—because of defective hernia mesh, you may have grounds to hold the hernia mesh manufacturer responsible. Your claim may be able to help you recover money for your damages and could also help save other patients from the pain and frustration you endured.
A seasoned hernia mesh lawyer could evaluate your case to determine if you could file suit for individual compensation or become involved in a mass tort lawsuit against the manufacturer of your hernia mesh implant. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.