Synthetic surgical mesh has been used since the 1950’s to treat urinary incontinence, hernias, and pelvic organ prolapse. While this procedure has been effective for many women, the complications and adverse effects of vaginal mesh have become increasingly prevalent in recent years.
Why is vaginal mesh used?
The position of the pelvic organs (uterus, bladder and rectum) can be affected by the weakening of the pelvic muscles after childbirth or during menopause, causing pain, discomfort and urinary incontinence. Vaginal Mesh (also known as Urogynaecological mesh) is intended to support the weight of the affected pelvic organ, returning it to its original position.
What happens if this procedure is unsuccessful?
The most common complication involved with this procedure is vaginal mesh extrusion. Vaginal mesh extrusion occurs when the mesh perforates the vaginal wall. This has the potential to cause scarring, infection, pain and acute tissue damage.
Symptoms of a failed Vaginal Mesh procedure (as outlined by the HSE)
- Pelvic spasms
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Painful urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty emptying bladder
- Recurrent bladder infections
- Swelling or abscess at the site of mesh insertion
- Ability to feel the mesh through the vaginal wall
- Poking or prickling sensation in the pelvis
- Pain in the abdomen, groin, thigh or buttocks without improvement
Do you have a claim in negligence for a failed mesh insertion?
For a claim to be successful, it must be proven that the injuries sustained are as a result of negligence that has taken place.
A medical practitioner may be considered to have acted negligently should their actions have fallen below a reasonable standard of care. The reasonable standard of care is determined by how the average competent medical practitioner in the same field would act in the same circumstance, meaning it will need to be shown that the treatment you received fell below the standard that would have been expected.
You may also be eligible to claim in medical negligence should your medical practitioner have neglected to disclose all risks associated with this procedure.
What damages can be recovered?
Damages may be recovered for both physical and emotional injury, as well as financial loss. While this compensation cannot undo the damage sustained as a result of the negligent treatment, it will aim to make life with the consequences easier.
Physical injury involves the physical harm sustained to the body through the negligent insertion of the vaginal mesh, including, but not limited to, scarring, infection, pain or incontinence. Emotional injury can include depression or anxiety that has occurred as a response to the negligent treatment and the impact that it has had on the life of the victim.
Compensation for financial losses includes, yet is not limited to, loss of earnings, travel costs, costs of medical treatment and prescriptions.
Contact Us
If you are experiencing symptoms of a failed vaginal mesh insertion and believe you may be a victim of negligent treatment please contact us at McElhinney & Associates Solicitors on 074 91 75989 or complete our online enquiry form.
*In contentious business a Solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.
**This information is for guidance purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. Professional or legal advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action as a result of the contents of this publication. No liability is accepted by McElhinney & Associates for any action taken in reliance on the information contained herein. Any and all information is subject to change.
