Hernia Mesh Implant Use is Widespread But May Be Risky 

The use of hernia mesh implants in surgeries has sparked significant concern due to patient reported complications. We see these through litigations and reports in the medical literature, which in fairness, cuts both ways.

Across the pond, more than 100 different types of the implants were purchased by NHS Trusts in England and Scotland between 2012 and 2018, despite little or no clinical evidence to support their safety, per some reports. This also raises fears about the potential dangers these devices pose, with many patients reporting life-altering complications after surgery.

Hernia Mesh Implant Surgery Around the World

Hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures in the world. There are around 100,000 operations carried out annually in England alone—most involving mesh. While many procedures are successful, hundreds of patients have come forward to report severe complications, such as chronic pain, infections, and organ perforations. Experts estimate that one in ten patients may suffer from significant chronic pain following a hernia mesh repair, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.

A Mother Disabled by Hernia Mesh Implant Complications

Take Roseanna Clarkin, for example, a mother from Glasgow claims disability after her hernia mesh implant surgery. Mrs. Clarkin’s doctored was initially told her that her excruciating pain was “in her head,” causing her to feel hopeless. It wasn’t until she came across a report on the BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire program that she discovered the mesh used in her surgery was at the root of her suffering. Now, at just 36 years old, she finds herself unable to care for her children as she once did, leaving her family devastated.

Professor Carl Heneghan Calls for a Halt to Unverified Hernia Mesh Implant Use

Medical device expert Prof. Carl Heneghan from the University of Oxford has been outspoken about the need to halt the use of hernia mesh implants with no clinical evidence. He points out that over 100 types of hernia mesh devices are being used on NHS patients, but there haven’t been 100 randomized clinical trials to verify their safety. Heneghan has called for the NHS to immediately stop using these unverified devices and limit the options to a few types where the benefits are well-documented.

More Alarming  Hernia Mesh Implant Reports

Even more alarming, the Victoria Derbyshire program revealed that some hernia meshes can become “hard as stone” after only a year inside a patient’s body, causing additional damage and chronic pain. Despite this, such products continue to be sold by manufacturers like Ethicon, and the NHS still uses them in surgeries across England and Scotland. 

Global Scrutiny and the Impact of Mesh Suspension

International attention is now focusing on the use of hernia mesh implants, particularly following the suspension of vaginal mesh for most women in England after severe complications were reported. Lady Cumberlege, who is leading a government review on the issue, has noted that any recommendations regarding vaginal mesh will likely apply to hernia mesh as well.

Patients Call for Stricter Regulations and Safety Monitoring

Although the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has stated that the risks of hernia mesh implants are being monitored, many patients believe this is not enough. The regulatory system, they argue, is insufficient to protect patients from the long-term dangers of mesh implants. The Royal College of Surgeons of England has called for stronger regulation and more thorough monitoring of medical devices, while the Department of Health and Social Care is working to improve patient safety and better listen to patient concerns.

How KBA Attorneys Can Help

We work with firms in Europe. We can bring our knowledge and experience concerning hernia mesh to patients there.

Patients in the United States are not immune to the dangers of hernia mesh implants. Patients report complications from hernia mesh implants here as well. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a hernia mesh implant, KBA attorneys can help you navigate the complex legal process to seek justice. With a deep understanding of medical device litigation, KBA attorneys are dedicated to helping victims obtain compensation for their pain, suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages. Don’t wait—if you’ve experienced complications from hernia mesh implants, contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.