Transvaginal Mesh Class Action Commenced In Canada

LONDON, ON, April 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - The law firm Siskinds ^LLP has launched a class action against Johnson & Johnson Inc. ("Johnson & Johnson") and related entities regarding their transvaginal mesh products.

Transvaginal mesh products (also referred to as pelvic mesh products, vaginal mesh, a "hammock", or a "sling") are used to treat stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women.  These products are alleged to have high failure, injury, and complication rates, which could result in frequent and often debilitating re-operations and potentially cause severe and irreversible injuries, conditions and damage.

The Statement of Claim alleges that Johnson & Johnson failed to adequately warn patients and physicians of the magnitude of the risk of serious side effects when using one of their transvaginal mesh products compared to alternative treatments.  Possible side effects include mesh erosion through the vaginal wall, infection, pain, bladder perforation, vaginal scarring, pain during sexual intercourse, and other problems which may lead to a significant decrease in quality of life due to discomfort and pain.  Matthew Baer, a lawyer with Siskinds ^LLP, describes the purpose of the proceeding as "We believe that through this lawsuit Johnson & Johnson will be required to explain to Canadians what it knew about the risks associated with using their transvaginal mesh products and when they first became aware of those risks.  In this case, as with all of these types of cases, we are concerned about whether Canadians were adequately warned of the risks associated with using the products in question."

It is too early at this stage to quantify the claims of potential class members, but it is anticipated that the amount is significant.  Canadians who have experienced adverse events from a transvaginal mesh product are encouraged to visit www.classaction.ca or to call 1-800-461-6166 ext 2381 for English enquiries or ext 2409 for French enquiries.

SOURCE Siskinds LLP