A hernia occurs when an organ bulges out of a hole or weak point in the surrounding muscles or connective tissues. This medical condition is often caused or exacerbated by obesity, lifting heavy objects, persistent coughing, overexertion, and any other issues that weaken muscles and increase abdominal pressure. A common example is when an intestine protrudes through a person’s abdominal muscles. Understandably, this condition can be very painful and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Historically, surgical mesh has been used to patch these holes and provide additional support to any damaged tissues. These absorbable and non-absorbable implants are constructed from animal tissues or synthetic materials. Absorbable mesh degrades over time and is not intended to permanently repair the damaged tissue. Ideally, natural tissue growth should repair the area while the mesh slowly degrades. Non-absorbable mesh, on the other hand, remains in the body as a fixed implant.
Mesh implants can lead to the following medical complications:
- Physical pain
- Infections
- Internal bleeding
- Perforations
- Hernia recurrence
- Blockage of the intestines
A number of faulty hernia mesh brands have been identified, including: Physiomesh, Proceed, and Parietex. These dangerous products have been known to increase hernia reoccurrence and lead to health complications that necessitate invasive surgeries and mesh removal procedures. Unfortunately, the FDA fast-tracked these products without demanding exhaustive product testing. In fact, Covidien, the creator of Parietex, didn’t even conduct human trials before the product was sold and implanted in patients.
Mesh Removal Procedures
The removal of surgical mesh is an incredibly difficulty process. This procedure should only ever be attempted by experienced surgeons who specialize in mesh removal.
The success of a mesh removal surgery depends on the following factors:
- The type of mesh
- The size of the mesh
- Where the mesh was originally placed
- How long the mesh has been in a patient’s body
- The medical complications caused by the mesh
- How the mesh has migrated over time
- Which organs and tissues have become adherent to the mesh
While 90% of patients report a decrease in pain-related symptoms, prospective patients need to be realistic about the success of this treatment option. It’s important to discuss your circumstances with a qualified medical professional before making any life-altering decisions.
Pursuing Compensation
If you’ve suffered any medical complications due to your mesh implant, contact the Dothan personal injury attorneys at Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC. We can help you file an effective claim against a negligent doctor or manufacturer and guide you through each step of this complicated legal process. A success lawsuit can yield damages that account for your past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and any punitive or non-economic damages as determined by the court. As a law firm, our priority is to help you recover compensation that facilitates your physical and financial recovery.
We have over 130 years of collective legal experience! Contact Morris, Andrews, Talmadge & Driggers, LLC at (844) 654-6228 to schedule a free consultation.
