Our law firm is representing consumers who have suffered complications from Covidien’s Parietex hernia mesh products. Through years of experience handling these cases, we’ve developed deep insight into both the medical complications and legal challenges faced by patients with Parietex mesh implants.
The Development of Parietex Mesh
Introduced by Covidien in 1999, Parietex surgical mesh was marketed as an innovative solution for hernia repair surgery. The device was designed to provide structural support and prevent hernia recurrence. Covidien, now a subsidiary of Medtronic, developed this mesh using polyester rather than the traditional polypropylene material used in most surgical meshes.
Critical Design Defects in Parietex Mesh
This change in materials has proven problematic for many patients. The polyester-based design of Parietex mesh exhibits several concerning characteristics that can lead to patient harm. The material tends to shrink after implantation, and its unsealed edges allow fibers to unravel within the body. These loose fibers can stiffen and harden, potentially causing damage to surrounding organs and tissue. Additionally, the polyester material has shown a tendency to weaken over time, leading to tears and structural failures that can necessitate additional surgeries.
FDA Approval Process and Market Entry
Perhaps most concerning is how this product reached the market. Covidien used the FDA’s 510(k) fast-track approval process, which allowed them to bypass human trials before beginning commercial sales. This regulatory shortcut meant that serious design flaws weren’t discovered until patients began experiencing complications. Our experience with these cases has shown that many patients weren’t adequately warned about these potential risks before their surgery.
Parietex Mesh Complications
Medical studies have raised significant concerns about hernia mesh products like Parietex, and some medical experts have questioned whether these devices are suitable for permanent implantation in the human body.
Common complications reported with defective hernia mesh:
- Severe chronic pain in the abdomen, groin, or leg areas
- Infections at the surgical site and throughout the body
- Bowel obstruction or perforation
- Mesh erosion through surrounding tissue
- Adhesion of the mesh to internal organs
- Migration of the mesh from the original implant site
- Formation of seromas (fluid pockets) around the mesh
- Nerve damage causing chronic pain and numbness
- Need for revision surgeries to remove or repair the mesh
- Hernia recurrence after mesh failure
These complications can fundamentally alter patients’ lives, often leading to substantial medical expenses and prolonged periods away from work.
Understanding Your Complications
The Parietex mesh’s polyester construction presents unique risks compared to traditional polypropylene meshes. While designed to prevent adhesion to internal organs, these protective features often fail. When this happens, patients can experience severe complications including bowel perforation, organ damage, and serious infections. Many of our clients report chronic pain in their groin, abdomen, or leg areas, while others develop painful fluid collections (seromas) around the implant site. Nerve damage is another serious concern, potentially leading to long-term disability and chronic pain.
The Impact on Patients’ Lives
The complications from Parietex mesh can be devastating. Many patients face recurring infections, both at the surgical site and throughout their body. Bowel obstructions, a particularly dangerous complication, often require emergency surgery and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. The mesh may erode over time, leading to internal damage and requiring complex revision surgeries. These complications often result in extensive medical bills, lost wages, and significant disruption to family life.
Current Status of Parietex Mesh Cases
As of January 2025, over 1,500 personal injury lawsuits have been filed in the consolidated federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the District of Massachusetts. The lawsuits are titled MDL 3029: In Re: Covidien Hernia Mesh Products Liability Litigation No. II.
The following Covidien hernia mesh products are involved in the litigation:
- Parietex Composite (PCO) Mesh
- Parietex ProGrip Self-Fixating Mesh
- Parietex Optimized Composite Mesh
- Parietex Plug and Patch System
- Parietex Composite Open Skirt Mesh
- Parietex Optimized Open Skirt Mesh
- Parietex Composite Parastomal Mesh
- Parietex Lightweight Monofilament Mesh
- Symbotex Composite Mesh
- Parietene Mesh products
The litigation has entered a critical phase of discovery with nearly 2 million documents under review. These defective medical device cases center on two key issues: the allegedly defective design of these products and Covidien’s failure to adequately warn patients about potential risks.
The litigation is progressing at a steady pace, with the discovery phase expected to conclude in 2025. The first bellwether trials are scheduled to begin in late 2025, which will provide important insights into how juries may view these cases.
Discuss Your Legal Options
If you’ve experienced complications following hernia repair surgery using mesh products, you’re not alone. Many of our clients have experienced complications including chronic pain, infection, hernia recurrence, and the need for revision surgeries. We’ve helped hundreds of consumers secure compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering.
Contact us for a confidential case and medical record review. Our firm handles these cases on a contingent fee basis, meaning there are no fees unless we obtain compensation for you.
Contact our office to discuss your legal options.