Hernias are a common ailment. Repair surgeries for hernias are also one of the most common types of surgeries in the US. There are over half a million hernia repair surgeries performed annually in the US.
Understanding Hernias
When a muscle weakens, the underlying organs, layers or fatty tissue can squeeze through the weakened area and form a sac. This is what is known as a hernia.
There are different types of hernias depending on their location in the body and the organs involved. They include:
- Abdominal – these affect the abdominal wall
- Umbilical – occur near or in the navel
- Incisional – occur at surgical sites
- Hiatal – occur at the point where the stomach and esophagus meet
- Inguinal – occur in the area of the groin
Hernia Mesh Patches
After a hernia repair surgery, a surgeon may opt to stitch in a plug or mesh patch. This is done to prevent the hernia from re-opening. The mesh patch acts as reinforcement to the connective tissue and muscles.
The mesh patches or plugs used can be non-synthetic or synthetic. The synthetic products are made of manufactured materials, such as polyester fibers, polyprolylene and ePTEE. Non synthetic products are made from biological materials that are derived from animal dermis or donated from humans. These materials include human tissue implants, pig skin, porcine and cadaver skin. The meshes can also be classified as absorbable or permanent.
There are various different products used including those from companies, such as Davol, Ethicon and Gore Medical.
Complications from Defective Hernia Mesh
Patients of hernia repair surgeries have complained of complications arising from the use of the mesh or plugs. These include:
- Organ perforation
- Rejection
- Chronic pain
- Reactions to foreign bodies
- Allergic reactions
- Scar tissue adhesion
- Hernia recurrence
- Blocking of small and large intestines
- Mesh contraction
- Need for additional surgeries.
Several hernia repair mesh products have been linked to serious complications in patients. These include:
- Atrium C-Qur
- Omega-3 Hernia Mesh
- Ethicon Physiomesh
Thousands of patients who were injured as a result of the defective plugs and mesh patches have filed lawsuits against the manufacturing companies. Lawyers are now accepting cases in all states with the aim of moving for a class action.
If you have suffered injuries resulting from the use of these products, talk to your doctor and get in touch with an experienced defective hernia mesh lawyer as soon as possible. You may be eligible for compensation for the injuries and other damages incurred as a result.
Leave a Reply