We were pleased with the news about the Australian vaginal mesh court case victory, given that we represent many victims here in the UK.
We know about the serious complications and injuries that women can suffer from when their mesh device goes wrong. We have been representing people for medical negligence compensation claims arising from vaginal mesh for years, and we know that there are thousands of women worldwide who are suffering.
News of this key victory was welcome, although the fight still goes on for many women around the world. This includes those we’re representing here in England and Wales.
About the Australian vaginal mesh court case
The Australian vaginal mesh court case that recently succeeded was against Ethicon; a subsidiary company of J & J. Over 1,350 women were said to be a part of the action, and the Judge presiding over the matter has reportedly held that Ethicon is liable to compensate victims.
Judge Anna Katzmann is said to have concluded that “inaccurate” and “false representations” had been made by the company, and that “risks were known, not insignificant and on Ethicon’s own admission, serious harm could ensue if they eventuated”.
In terms of advice given, this is said to apply to both patients and surgeons as well.
Does this case affect the UK?
The Australian vaginal mesh court case won’t have a direct impact on cases over here as we have a separate legal jurisdiction. That being said, the key issues addressed in that case are important to look at in terms of how we pursue claims here.
As the Judge has commented, a huge part of this case has been about the advice given to women and surgeons. This has been an issue here as well whereby women have not been offered potential alternatives, and the advice about what could go wrong hasn’t been anywhere near good enough in some cases.
Some women can be left unable to work or walk ever again if their pelvic mesh device fails, and thousands of women have suffered from problems. This is advice that needs to be clearly communicated to patients to allow them to make more informed decisions about whether to undergo this procedure or not.
Claiming for compensation here in England and Wales
News about the successful vaginal mesh court case should hopefully lead to more women getting in touch to talk about their options for justice.
We can’t turn back the clocks and stop what has already happened, but we can pursue a legal claim for personal injury compensation. This could allow for damages for any pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused. This can also factor in losses and expenses which can include lost earnings from time off work, and private treatment options.
A claim can be the way to give a voice to the victims, and we can represent people on a No Win, No Fee basis in England and Wales. For free, no-obligation advice about your options, you can contact the team today on 0800 634 75 75.
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