What is a Hernia Mesh and What’s the Problem With It?
A hernia mesh is a special device made of synthetic materials or animal tissues that helps to support weakened tissue during hernia surgery. It stops organs from slipping out of place and helps the tissue to heal properly. The mesh comes in different sizes and shapes, and it’s often used during hernia surgeries to prevent the hernia from coming back. In relation to this, not all hernia meshes are created equal. Some are meant to dissolve in the body, while others remain in place permanently.
So exactly what is the issue with these devices? Tens of thousands of people are filing lawsuits against the mesh implant manufacturers because of suffering numerous, extremely severe complications that occurred after they underwent the surgery. Some of the common issues patients have reported experiencing are:
- Mesh failure
- Infection
- Bowel obstruction
- Perforation (mesh causing tears in internal organs)
- Adherence (mesh sticking to internal organs)
- Migration (mesh moving from the original site)
- Seroma (fluid buildup under the surface of the skin)
The use of hernia mesh can sometimes cause long-lasting problems for patients such as chronic pain, the need for more surgeries, and a decrease in quality of life. People who have suffered from these complications believe that the companies who made the mesh made defective products, labeled them wrongly, and didn't warn people about the potential risks. In some cases, doctors who implanted a faulty mesh may also be accused of malpractice.
Over the years, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled several types of hernia mesh, despite its valuable role in helping patients recover. As a result of these recalls, many injured patients in the United States have filed lawsuits against major corporations that sell defective hernia mesh implants to make a profit.
