Transvaginal meshes are flexible patches that implanted on vaginal walls to strengthen their structure. If a doctor implanted this type of mesh on your vaginal wall, it is likely because you suffer from stress urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse.
Whereas stress urinary incontinence refers to losing control over your bladder when you laugh, exercise, sneeze or cough, pelvic organ prolapse refers to pelvic muscles weakening, which prevents your organs from staying in place. The issue with the transvaginal mesh in Louisiana and elsewhere is that it has been associated with numerous medical complications.
Complications
Back in 2008, the Food and Drug Administration warned the public about emerging complications with transvaginal mesh implants. The administration reported that the complications were common and that they could require significant medical treatment. In addition, officials said many patients actually experienced re-occurrences of stress urinary continence or pelvic organ prolapse due to their mesh-related complications. These issues led to questions about the safety of the products.
A common complication with transvaginal mesh implants is mesh erosion. This takes place when a transplanted mesh starts to break down and erode soon after its implantation. Taking out these mesh fragments can be complicated because they become intertwined with the tissue.
Another complication associated with a transvaginal mesh is the perforation of organs. The sharp mesh pieces resulting from mesh erosion may slice your nearby organs, thus leading to internal bleeding. Unfortunately, fecal matter and urine may go into the wrong areas of your body due to such perforations, thus resulting in serious infections. Patients who suffer from organ perforation or mesh erosion usually need extensive medical treatment, which includes the drainage of abscesses or hematomas, IV therapy and blood transfusions.
Your rights
If you suffer from transvaginal mesh complications, you may experience extreme pain that negatively impacts your quality of life. The treatment you must receive to address the complications may also result in hefty health care bills.
Fortunately, if transvaginal mesh implants erode shortly after implantation, one may hold the manufacturers of these defective items financially responsible for the injuries stemming from the product’s defects. As an injured patient, you have the right to pursue monetary compensation in Louisiana, which may help you to address your lost wages, medical costs, and even the pain and suffering you experienced as a result of your injury.
