Essure Complications and Litigation
There are many forms of birth control available to those wishing to avoid pregnancy. Certain methods are permanent like a vasectomy and tubal ligation, while others are temporary like the birth control pill or condoms.
When Essure hit the market in 2002, doctors and women were excited to have a permanent birth control option that did not involve surgery or the release of hormones. However, fifteen years after introduction into the marketplace, there is cause for concern as many women have experienced serious complications and injuries as a result of these implants.
What is Essure?
Essure is a device that when placed in the body of a woman is considered a permanent form of birth control. Once the Essure device is placed inside the body, it is designed to remain there permanently.
The procedure to insert the device is simple. Flexible metal coils are inserted into the fallopian tubes through the vagina and cervix. Tissue grows over the insertion creating a barrier in the fallopian tubes blocking the path of the sperm and avoiding fertilization of the egg.
Three months after insertion of the device, diagnostic tests are conducted to ensure the device is in the correct place and the barrier was created, creating the permanent block in the fallopian tubes.
Essure Injuries and Side Effects
Every medical procedure carries some form of risk. In the case of Essure, women complain that they experience mild, moderate pain, cramping, vaginal bleeding, and pelvic or back discomfort. Long term complaints however, include unintended pregnancies, migration of the device out of the fallopian tubes and into the pelvis or abdomen, joint pain, nickel allergies, or puncturing of the fallopian tubes and uterus. Treatment includes multiple procedures up to and including surgery to remove the device. Some women have had to have their fallopian tubes or uterus removed.
Essure Litigation
There are several lawsuits pending against Bayer, the manufacturer of the Essure device. The claims being advanced include the need for surgeries beyond the implant procedure and individuals suffering unusual reactions to the implant. Medical device cases such as those asserted against Bayer are extremely complex and face a number of legal hurdles. Litigation of these cases is hard fought and expensive as the manufacturers of these medical devices have a lot to lose in the way of investment and profit.
Contact Atlanta’s Products Liability Lawyers
If you are suffering from complications following an Essure implant or other medical device, contact the Atlanta products liability lawyers at Cash, Krugler & Fredericks for a free confidential consultation and case evaluation. Contact us at (404) 659-1710 today.
