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If you or a loved one experienced pain, infection, or required revision surgery following hernia mesh migration, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective hernia mesh products. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Table Of Contents
- Hernia Mesh Migration Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Hernia Mesh Migration Lawsuit Updates
- Hernia Mesh Migration Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Hernia Mesh Migration Lawsuit?
- Signs and Symptoms of Hernia Mesh Migration
- High-Risk Mesh Products for Migration
- Diagnosis of Hernia Mesh Migration
- Statute of Limitations for Hernia Mesh Lawsuits
- Why Choose Schmidt & Clark, LLP For Your Claim
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
- References
Hernia Mesh Migration Lawsuit Overview
Hernia mesh migration is a rare but serious complication that occurs when the mesh used in hernia repair surgery shifts from its original position. This migration can lead to severe pain, infection, and organ damage, requiring additional surgery to remove or reposition the mesh [1]. Mesh migration has been documented in approximately 2.5% of patients who had hernia repair using permanent or temporary mesh products [2].
Latest Hernia Mesh Migration Lawsuit Updates
Currently, legal claims are being filed against manufacturers of mesh devices for failing to warn patients and physicians about health risks associated with defective hernia mesh products. These lawsuits particularly focus on products like Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 and Ethicon Physiomesh, which have been associated with higher rates of migration complications.
Hernia Mesh Migration Injuries & Side Effects
Hernia mesh migration can result in numerous serious side effects and complications that significantly impact a patient’s quality of life [3].
- Infection: Disruption of the healing process and increased risk of infection, with symptoms including fever, redness, swelling, and discharge.
- Adhesion Formation: Formation of scar tissue leading to bowel obstruction or movement-related pain [4].
- Unusual Bleeding: Irritation and inflammation causing bleeding at the surgical site or more widespread bleeding.
- Fistula Formation: Abnormal connections between organs or between an organ and skin, leading to abdominal pain, nausea, and bowel movement changes [5].
- Hernia Recurrence: Inadequate support from migrated mesh, causing the hernia to return with symptoms like abdominal bulging and pain when lifting.
- Chronic Pain: Persistent discomfort due to tissue irritation and inflammation, which may be difficult to manage with conventional treatments. Chronic pain from hernia mesh surgery may be challenging to manage and require additional treatment, such as medication or physical therapy.
- Organ Damage: Migration into organs like the bladder or intestines, potentially causing serious complications requiring surgical intervention [6].
Related Article:Hernia Mesh Patch Lawsuit Update
Do You Qualify for a Hernia Mesh Migration Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a hernia mesh lawsuit if:
- You had hernia repair surgery using mesh (particularly products like Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 or Ethicon Physiomesh)
- You experienced complications such as pain, infection, bleeding, or required revision surgery
- Your medical records can document mesh migration as the cause of your complications
- You can provide evidence linking your injuries to the hernia mesh product
You should contact a personal injury lawyer if:
- You’ve suffered significant injuries from hernia mesh migration
- You’re unsure about your legal rights or options
- You cannot negotiate a settlement with the manufacturer
- You’re experiencing financial hardship due to medical bills or lost wages
Evidence Required for a Hernia Mesh Lawsuit
To strengthen your claim, the following evidence will be needed:
- Medical records documenting your hernia repair surgery
- Documentation of complications and diagnosis of mesh migration
- Records of subsequent treatments and surgeries related to mesh complications
- Medical bills and expenses related to treating mesh migration complications
Damages You Can Recover
Compensation in a hernia mesh migration lawsuit may cover:
- Medical expenses for additional surgeries and treatments
- Lost wages due to inability to work during recovery
- Pain and suffering from complications
- Long-term disability or impairment resulting from mesh migration
Signs and Symptoms of Hernia Mesh Migration
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hernia mesh migration is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment [3]. Symptoms can develop immediately after surgery or appear months or even years later.
General Symptoms:
- Pain: Ranging from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain at the surgical site or surrounding areas
- Inflammation: Redness, swelling, and unusual warmth around the surgical site
- Fever: Unexplained fever may indicate an infection related to mesh migration
Digestive and Urinary Symptoms:
- Bloating or difficulty passing stool or gas: Mesh migration may cause adhesions (scar tissue) leading to bowel movement changes
- Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms may indicate complications related to mesh migration
- Urinary problems: Frequent urination, pain during urination, or blood in urine if mesh migrates near the bladder
Visible Physical Signs:
- Bulging in the hernia area: If mesh migrates from its intended repair site
- Warm or hot skin at incision site: May indicate inflammation or infection
- Poor wound healing: Surgical wound that fails to heal properly
- Fluid buildup (seromas): Collection of fluid at the surgical site
Chronic Complications:
- Persistent pain: Pain that continues beyond the normal healing period
- Recurrence of hernia: The original hernia returns because the mesh no longer provides adequate support
- Chronic infection: Ongoing infection that may be difficult to resolve without removing the migrated mesh
If you experience any of these symptoms following hernia repair surgery, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider promptly. Early detection of mesh migration can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
What Happens When the Implant Moves Into the Bladder?
If an implant moves into the bladder, it can cause various complications including:
- Frequent urination – The implant in the bladder may stimulate the bladder muscles and cause an increased need to urinate
- Pain or discomfort during urination – The implant may cause irritation or pressure on the bladder wall
- Blood in the urine – The implant may irritate or damage the bladder lining
Additionally, the implant may cause blockages in the urinary tract, leading to urinary retention and potential kidney damage if left untreated.
High-Risk Mesh Products for Migration
Some mesh products have been identified as having a higher risk of migration:
- Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 – This mesh product combines absorbable and non-absorbable materials and has been associated with a higher risk of migration, infection, and adhesions. Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 is no longer available on the market.
- Ethicon Physiomesh – Made of polypropylene, Ethicon Physiomesh has been linked to higher rates of migration and other complications. It is no longer available in the United States but may still be sold in other countries.
Diagnosis of Hernia Mesh Migration
Hernia mesh migration is typically diagnosed through [7]:
- Physical examination to assess symptoms and examine the surgical site
- Review of medical history and current medications
- Imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to confirm migration and determine the mesh’s location
- Laboratory tests to check for signs of infection or other complications
- Treatment for Hernia Mesh Migration
“Despite the complexity of mesh removal, patients undergoing mesh removal can often be discharged within hours of the operation. Often the patient will experience relief of symptoms within hours or days of the surgery. This can be a life-changing operation for many.”
– Jonathan Yunis, M.D. at the Center for Hernia Repair
If a migrated implant is causing symptoms or complications, healthcare providers may recommend surgery to reposition or remove the mesh. The approach depends on:
- The location of the migrated mesh
- The severity of the migration
- Presence of complications like infection or organ damage
Surgery may be performed through an abdominal incision or minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopy. If the migrated mesh isn’t causing symptoms, doctors may recommend monitoring rather than immediate surgical intervention.
Statute of Limitations for Hernia Mesh Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a hernia mesh lawsuit varies by state and typically ranges from 1-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury. These time limits are strictly enforced, making it crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after experiencing complications.
Some states follow the “discovery rule,” which means the statute of limitations begins when you knew or should have known that your injury was caused by the hernia mesh. This is particularly important for complications like mesh migration that may not be immediately apparent.
Additionally, if the hernia mesh was subject to a recall, different time limitations might apply to your case. Because these timeframes can be complex and vary significantly depending on your circumstances and location, speaking with a qualified attorney promptly is essential to preserve your legal rights.
Why Choose Schmidt & Clark, LLP For Your Claim
- We have over 20 years of experience representing injured individuals in their claims against large corporations and government agencies.
- Our lawyers represent the victims of defective hernia mesh in the United States.
- Our law firm will deal with every aspect of your case on your behalf and guide you through every stage of litigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is hernia mesh migration?Hernia mesh migration occurs when the mesh material used in hernia repair surgery moves from its original placement to another location in the body. This can happen if the mesh is not properly secured or if the body rejects it, potentially causing pain, infection, and damage to surrounding organs or tissues.How common is hernia mesh migration?Hernia mesh migration is a relatively rare complication of hernia repair surgery, estimated to occur in about 2.5% of hernia repair procedures using permanent or temporary mesh. However, the exact incidence may be higher as not all cases are diagnosed or reported.What are the symptoms of hernia mesh migration?Symptoms may include pain or discomfort at the surgical site, fever, redness or swelling, wound healing problems, bulging in the hernia area, bloating, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and in some cases, chronic pain that persists for an extended period.What happens when hernia mesh migrates into the bladder?When mesh migrates into the bladder, it can cause frequent urination, pain during urination, blood in the urine, urinary retention, and potential kidney damage. The implant may irritate the bladder lining or cause blockages in the urinary tract.What happens when hernia mesh migrates into the scrotum?Mesh migration into the scrotum can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness. It may also lead to blockages in the reproductive or urinary tracts, potentially causing fertility issues or urinary problems.Will I need another surgery if my hernia mesh has migrated?Additional surgery is often necessary if the migrated mesh is causing symptoms or complications like pain, infection, or organ damage. The surgery may involve repositioning or removing the mesh, depending on the situation. If the mesh isn’t causing symptoms, monitoring might be recommended instead.Can hernia mesh cause problems years after surgery?Yes, mesh used for hernia repair can cause complications years after the initial surgery. These may include infection, hernia recurrence, adhesions, chronic pain, and mesh migration. The risk depends on the type of mesh used, patient characteristics, and surgical technique.What types of hernia mesh are most likely to migrate?Products like Atrium C-Qur Edge 4 and Ethicon Physiomesh have been associated with higher rates of migration complications. These products have since been removed from the market in many regions due to safety concerns.Related Articles:
See the other defective medical device lawsuits our lawyers have covered.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action for hernia mesh migration complications. Statutes of limitations vary by state, making it crucial to act promptly if you wish to seek compensation for your injuries.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations
- No upfront costs or fees
- Payment only if we win your case
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36420345/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6545489/#:~:text=Migration%20of%20mesh%20after%20any,or%20probably%20external%20displacing%20forces.
- https://www.drugwatch.com/hernia-mesh/complications/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7507712_Mesh_migration_following_repair_of_inguinal_hernia_A_case_report_and_review_of_literature
- https://surgicalcasereports.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40792-014-0004-2
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210261220312554
- https://www.facs.org/for-medical-professionals/news-publications/journals/case-reviews/issues/v3n6/holder-murray-mesh/