Transvaginal mesh is a type of device that is implanted in women suffering from the conditions of pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. When used for the treatment of POP, complications may occur with more frequency than when used to treat stress urinary incontinence. As such, in 2016, the FDA changed the classification of mesh to treat POP from moderate risk to high risk. Complications can include mesh erosion, pain, bleeding, pain during sex, organ perforation, and urinary problems. Women suffering such complications have filed class-action lawsuits, and North Jersey reports on the outcome of one such lawsuit.
A Bergen County, New Jersey jury awarded Elizabeth Hrymoc damages totaling $15 million in the lawsuit she brought against Johnson & Johnson for their faulty vaginal mesh.
The jury found that the manufacturer of the device, Ethicon, a Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, failed to warn against the potential side effects of their mesh devices.
Hrymoc was awarded $4 million for pain and suffering, $1 million for loss of conjugal affection, and a further $10 million in punitive damages.
The jury deliberated for just six hours before giving their decision after hearing 2 ½ weeks of testimony. Hrymoc’s attorneys built the case largely on internal communications in which showed reports and memos written by researchers that often cast doubt on the product’s safety.
With more than a million documents considered, the jury found the device, called Prolift, to be defective.
Hrymoc’s attorney said that he has an additional 240 clients who have filed lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson for mesh devices awaiting their day in court.
Have you been injured by a vaginal mesh device? You may have a case. Let the experienced attorneys at the law offices of John Foy & Associates fight for you. Call today for a consultation.