Boston Scientific Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuits (2010s): Understanding Settlements for Medical Device Injuries
The use of transvaginal mesh, a medical device implanted to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women, has been the subject of intense legal scrutiny over the past decade. While designed to improve the quality of life for women experiencing these conditions, the devices have led to significant complications for many, resulting in numerous lawsuits against manufacturers like Boston Scientific. This blog post delves into the complexities surrounding Boston Scientific transvaginal mesh lawsuits, exploring the settlements reached, the injuries sustained, and the legal landscape that has evolved since the 2010s.
The Rise of Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuits
Transvaginal mesh lawsuits surged in the 2010s as thousands of women began reporting severe complications following mesh implantation. These complications included:
- Mesh erosion: Where the mesh material degrades and protrudes into the vagina.
- Infection: Persistent and difficult-to-treat infections.
- Organ perforation: Puncturing of the bladder, bowel, or other pelvic organs.
- Pain: Chronic pelvic pain, including pain during sexual intercourse.
- Urinary problems: Incontinence, urgency, and difficulty urinating.
- Vaginal scarring: Scar tissue formation leading to discomfort and pain.
These complications often necessitated multiple revision surgeries to remove or repair the damaged tissue, leading to further pain, suffering, and financial burden for the affected women. As of May 2025, it’s estimated that manufacturers have paid over $8 billion in settlements and verdicts related to transvaginal mesh cases.
Boston Scientific’s Involvement
Boston Scientific was a significant player in the transvaginal mesh market, with several of its products named in lawsuits. The company faced allegations of:
- Defective design: Claiming the mesh devices were inherently flawed, making complications unavoidable.
- Failure to warn: Alleging the company did not adequately warn patients and physicians about the risks associated with the mesh.
- Negligence: Accusing Boston Scientific of failing to exercise reasonable care in the design, manufacture, and marketing of its products.
Settlements and Verdicts: A Look at the Numbers
Boston Scientific has engaged in numerous settlements to resolve transvaginal mesh lawsuits. Some notable examples include:
- 2015: A $119 million settlement to resolve approximately 3,000 cases, averaging around $40,000 per case.
- 2017: An undisclosed amount to settle an additional 350 lawsuits.
- 2021: A $189 million settlement with 47 states over deceptive marketing practices related to its vaginal mesh devices.
- 2023: A $105 million settlement approved by an Australian federal court in a class-action lawsuit.
Individual verdicts against Boston Scientific have also been substantial. For instance, in 2014, a jury awarded $73 million to a plaintiff who suffered permanent nerve damage and constant pelvic pain from the device. In another case, four women were awarded $26.7 million after claiming to have suffered pain, bleeding, and infection from Boston Scientific’s Pinnacle mesh device.
It’s important to note that average settlement amounts can vary widely, ranging from $40,000 to $450,000, depending on the severity of the injuries, the age of the plaintiff, and the extent of medical treatment required. Some plaintiffs who have taken their cases to trial have received millions in jury verdicts, although some of these verdicts have been overturned or reduced on appeal.
The Current Legal Landscape
As of May 2025, about 95% of transvaginal mesh lawsuits have been resolved through settlements or jury verdicts. While the original multidistrict litigations (MDLs) have closed, lawyers are still accepting cases for potential settlement or trial in state courts. This is because the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit, may not have expired for all affected women.
Advice for Women Affected by Transvaginal Mesh
If you have experienced complications from a Boston Scientific transvaginal mesh implant, it is crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. An attorney can:
- Evaluate your case and determine if you have a valid claim.
- Explain your legal options and guide you through the process.
- Negotiate with Boston Scientific and its insurers to reach a fair settlement.
- Represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Taking Action
The Boston Scientific transvaginal mesh lawsuits highlight the serious risks associated with medical devices and the importance of holding manufacturers accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has been injured by a transvaginal mesh implant, seeking legal counsel is a critical step in protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve.