Judge Rules Johnson & Johnson Subsidiary in Australia Failed To Warn of Risks

Lawyers representing a number of patients who have endured health problems after being fitted with mesh implants have welcomed the news that more than 1,000 women have won their long-running legal battle with Johnson & Johnson (J&J) regarding the products.

The BBC reports that Australia’s Federal Court has found that J&J’s subsidiary Ethicon failed to provide warnings regarding vaginal mesh products, which were used to treat conditions like incontinence after childbirth.

Those affected have suffered a range of serious health issues as a result of the implants, including discomfort, chronic pain and bleeding. The court is expected to make compensation awards related to the case next year.

Specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have vast expertise in providing advice and support to those affected by defective medical products and implants.

Sallie Booth is the lead solicitor for English claimants who bring similar claims against J&J in this jurisdiction and has welcomed the decision announced today. 

Expert Opinion

“Concerns about the use of mesh implants especially for the repair of pelvic organ prolapse have been known for years and through our work we have seen how such products can have devastating long-term and irreversible consequences for those fitted with them.

“With this in mind, it is welcome to see the outcome of this legal action in Australia and it is vital that lessons are ultimately learned. Patients put great faith in medical experts and have to trust that products being implanted in their bodies are safe. This Judgment establishes that the manufacturer did not take sufficient steps to establish that mesh was in fact safe and was more concerned to maximise profit by rushing their products to market.

“This is a terrible example where thousands of women have been let down.” Sallie Booth - Partner

The legal experts act for a number of women affected by issues with mesh implants, including more than 50 who underwent unnecessary mesh procedures performed by colorectal surgeon Dr Tony Dixon at hospitals in the Bristol area.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling mesh cases