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Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuit News – Across The Pond

While the number of transvaginal mesh lawsuit cases in the U.S. has now passed the 60,000 mark, incredibly, many doctors are continuing to use them. In most cases, these meshes are used to treat urinary stress incontinence (this method is widely called using a “bladder sling”).  Most doctors still prefer using “bladder slings,” which they still view as safer and more effective than traditional procedures.

However, the use of transvaginal mesh to correct pelvic organ prolapse has drastically declined, as many new studies are proving that the use of mesh for prolapse can serious injuries and debilitating pain, as seen in many recent transvaginal mesh lawsuit complaints.

Nonetheless, many transvaginal mesh products are still available in the U.S. - and according to a woman who has started an online support website for patients who have suffered as a result of the procedure, the manufacturers have not only marketed these as a “one-size-fits-all” solution, they have failed to provide surgeons with adequate training and support on how to properly employ the devices.  Furthermore, there are few surgeons who really understand how to remove the device.

Despite this, between 60,000 and 70,000 women a year are being treated with a transvaginal mesh device. Vaginal mesh lawsuit cases related to these meshes continue to be filed.

Across the Atlantic, the U.K., National Health Service is attempting to put a moratorium on sales and use of the mesh. Alex Neil, who serves as NHS secretary in Scotland, is calling on the agency to cease all uses of the mesh until investigations into the device's safety have been completed.  A call for a moratorium on meshes was issued last year, but health secretary then claimed he had no authority to act – and more significantly, was afraid that the manufacturers would initiate legal action against the NHS.

Pressure from Scottish women who have been suffering has changed that equation. As of this writing, Secretary Neil has contacted all health boards in Scotland and request that all use of the mesh be suspended.

In the meantime, it seems that the FDA is not afraid of the mesh manufacturers at all – like so much of the  U.S. government these days, it continues to enable and kow-tow to corporate power.

Those manufacturers should rather fear the growing army of transvaginal mesh lawsuit litigants. One company, American Medical Systems, has decided to settle many cases against it, though, as recently reported on Ring of Fire Radiothree other major manufacturers are continuing to use a variety of delaying tactics.

It is important that those who have a cause of action for a vaginal mesh lawsuit contact our offices for a free case evaluation at the earliest opportunity for the best chance at getting compensation for their pain and expenses.

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