Mesh claims arise when individuals experience health complications following a surgical mesh implant. If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a mesh implant, understanding your compensation rights is crucial.
At Friends Legal, our clinical negligence lawyers can help you with all manners of mesh claims. For expert guidance with your mesh implant claim, contact our approachable team at 0333 3580 583 or complete our online enquiry form.
What is Surgical Mesh, and Why is it Used?
Surgical mesh is composed of synthetic or biological materials, such as polypropylene or polyester. Despite its intended purpose of providing additional support to weakened or damaged tissues, these mesh implants have been linked to the deterioration of some patients’ health and quality of life.
Typically, any mesh implant claim would involve allegations of negligence or defective products against the manufacturers or healthcare providers involved in the implantation procedure.
Types of Mesh Implant Complications
Complications and risks that can come from mesh implants include:
- Chronic pain
- Nerve trauma
- Organ damage
- Infection
- Difficulty or inability to walk
- Mesh erosion, migration, or shrinkage
If you or a loved one has undergone surgery involving mesh and suffered any of the above symptoms, you may be able to claim compensation. Our skilled clinical negligence solicitors understand the severity of issues caused by mesh implants and are committed to assisting those affected by such medical errors in Scotland.
Mesh Implants and Patient Safety
The safety of mesh implants has been a growing concern, with numerous studies highlighting the risks of using these medical devices. This has led to calls for better regulation and support for those impacted.
Vaginal Mesh Claims in Scotland
Vaginal mesh implants were introduced to the UK in the 1990s and were used to treat two broad categories – stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP). In 20 years, more than 20,000 women in Scotland had a transvaginal mesh implant, with many reporting severe complications after the procedure. In 2018, transvaginal mesh implants were suspended in Scotland in response to those who suffered.
The Government set up a £1 million mesh fund to help women impacted, and introduced the Complex Mesh Surgical Service to assist with the care for complications caused by mesh insertion to treat SUI and POP.
“Hernia mesh operations have a 12-30% chance of complications.”
Mesh implant complications are not isolated to transvaginal implants. They can impact hernia and rectal prolapse mesh patients in a similar way. Symptoms following a hernia mesh surgery can include infection, pain, nausea, hernia recurrence, bowel obstruction, and bladder issues. The mesh itself can also shrink or erode.
Our lawyers at Friends Legal are well-versed in the complexities of hernia mesh claims and ready to assist you in seeking justice and compensation.
Establishing Negligence in Mesh Implant Claims
Negligence in mesh implant procedures commonly involves either:
- A failure to adequately inform patients of the risks,
- Improper implantation techniques, or
- Use of defective products.
Additionally, documenting the impact of the mesh implant on your day-to-day life (such as the physical and emotional suffering you have endured) can further strengthen your claim.
Whether you want to make an NHS mesh compensation claim or a private compensation claim, our solicitors are on hand to help you prove negligence.
Mesh Claims — How We Can Help
Pursuing compensation requires the expertise of clinical negligence solicitors experienced in mesh claims. At Friends Legal, our team will gather necessary evidence, consult medical experts, and build a strong case on your behalf. We understand the suffering many mesh implant patients deal with and strive to secure the maximum compensation for your specific situation.
Compensation for Mesh Implant Claims
Mesh implant compensation claims may cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of income, and other damages. The amount can vary depending on:
- Severity of harm: the extent of physical and emotional damage caused by the implant.
- Impact on life: long-term effects on quality of life.
- Financial losses: costs incurred due to the mesh implant.
No Win, No Fee Mesh Claims
Our ‘No Win, No Fee’ policy ensures your finances don’t stop you from pursuing a mesh claim. Our no win, no fee medical negligence solicitors are committed to supporting mesh implant patients every step of the way, offering our expertise and support without adding to your financial concerns.
Time Limits For Mesh Claims
The general time limit for filing a mesh claim in Scotland is three years from the date of knowledge of the issue. Prompt legal consultation is vital to ensure your negligence claim is within this timeframe.
Mesh Implant Legal Advice — Speak With Our Clinical Negligence Solicitors Today
If you’ve been affected by a mesh implant complication, contact Friends Legal today for a free consultation. Our solicitors are ready to support you through this challenging time and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us on 0333 3580 583 or complete our form for a callback at a time that is convenient for you.
