Hernia Mesh Lawsuit FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hernia mesh?

Hernia mesh is a medical device used during hernia repair surgery to reinforce weakened abdominal tissue. It is typically made from synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester, or from biological materials. While most hernia repairs are successful, certain mesh products have caused serious complications.

Which hernia mesh products are defective?

Multiple products from several manufacturers have been subject to lawsuits, including:

• Ethicon Physiomesh (recalled in 2016)
• C.R. Bard Kugel Mesh (recalled 2005-2007)
• Atrium C-QUR Mesh
• Bard 3DMax, Ventralex, Composix
• Ethicon Proceed, Prolene

How do I know if my mesh is defective?

Signs of mesh complications include:

• Chronic pain at the surgical site
• Swelling, redness, or infection
• Feeling or seeing the mesh through the skin
• Return of hernia symptoms
• New abdominal symptoms (bowel issues, etc.)

A medical evaluation, often including imaging, can confirm mesh-related problems.

My surgery was years ago — can I still file?

Possibly. Statutes of limitations vary by state, but some courts have ruled that the clock starts when you discovered or should have discovered the mesh was the cause of your problems. If complications appeared years after your original surgery, you may still be within the filing window.

I don't know which brand of mesh was used.

Your medical records will specify which product was used. The hospital or surgeon's office can provide these records. Many attorneys will help obtain them as part of your case evaluation.

Do I need to have had revision surgery to file?

Not necessarily, but revision surgery significantly strengthens your case. Cases involving mesh removal tend to have higher settlement values. If you have ongoing symptoms but haven't had revision surgery, you may still have a valid claim — consult with an attorney.

How much does it cost to file a hernia mesh lawsuit?

Nothing upfront. Attorneys handle these cases on contingency, meaning they receive a percentage of any settlement or verdict. If there is no recovery, you owe nothing.

How long will my case take?

Timeline varies by manufacturer and case specifics:

• Bard cases: Many have been settled
• Ethicon cases: Still actively litigating, 2-5 years typical
• Atrium cases: Mixed, ongoing individual resolutions

Most cases resolve within 2-5 years of filing.

Will I have to go to court?

Most hernia mesh cases settle without going to trial. Only a small number of cases are selected as bellwethers. If your case is not selected, you will likely not need to testify in court.

Can I file if the mesh is still in my body?

Yes. You do not need to have the mesh removed to file a lawsuit. Ongoing complications with the mesh still in place are grounds for a claim.

What types of hernia surgeries are covered?

Any hernia repair surgery that used defective mesh can potentially qualify, including:

• Inguinal hernia repair
• Umbilical hernia repair
• Incisional (abdominal) hernia repair
• Hiatal hernia repair
• Femoral hernia repair
• Ventral hernia repair

What if I need more surgery in the future?

Future medical costs are typically included in settlement calculations. If you may need additional surgeries, your attorney will factor this into the case value.

Are more lawsuits expected?

Yes. Despite some manufacturers settling cases, new lawsuits continue to be filed as patients discover mesh-related complications. The litigation remains active.