Mentor’s ObTape sling is a surgically inserted medical device used to treat female patients who suffer from stress urinary incontinence, or SUI. This condition, also known as the loss of bladder control, affects around 13 million people. 35% of people over 60 years of age suffer from urinary incontinence, with females being two times more likely to be afflicted. The ObTape vaginal sling seemed to be a perfect solution, until patients began reporting painful complications after surgery. Studies of patients with ObTape slings showed that the device can have very unpleasant and painful results including the erosion of the ObTape through the vaginal wall.
What is ObTape Erosion?
ObTape erosion, also referred to as mesh erosion, graft erosion, and extrusion, occurs when the synthetic materials of the Ob sling push through the wall of the vagina or other organs. Many experts believe that ObTape causes erosion because the material composing the device is too dense to be fully incorporated into bodily function. The resultant erosion and expulsion cause various health problems including, but not limited to, discomfort during intercourse, constant vaginal discomfort, and malodorous vaginal discharge. After complications, the ObTape is usually surgically removed, but sometimes other smaller pieces of the device can be left behind, requiring further surgery.
ObTape Removed from Market
Repeated cases of erosion led to many adverse event reports being filed with the FDA in regards to Mentor’s ObTape sling device. According to one study published by the Journal of Urology, ObTape recipients suffered a 13.4% rate of erosion/extrusion. In 2006, after repeated complaints, Mentor Worldwide LLC pulled the ObTape sling from the market. However, before ObTape was removed from the market it was used in about 16,000 women. Many of these women may be experiencing the pain and discomfort of the erosion of ObTape through their vaginal walls.
ObTape Lawsuit: Speak to an Attorney
Many patients suffering from ObTape sling complications wish that they had been adequately warned of the risks and potential complications before undergoing the operation. If you or a loved one is suffering from Ob tape sling injuries please call the Willis Law Firm. We have female consultants standing by, trained to discuss these sensitive issues confidentially. We are currently accepting ObTape sling injury lawsuits nationwide. Our product liability law team at the Willis Law Firm is committed to getting you answers and financial compensation for your medical expenses, loss of income, physical pain, and emotional suffering. These cases are handled on a Contingency Fee Basis, which means that no attorney’s fees or any other expenses will be charged unless we recover for you. Speak to an ObTape Lawyer about your ObTape Lawsuit now and learn about the legal options available to you and your family.