Johnson & Johnson ordered to pay US$1.7 million to three Australian women in pelvic mesh class action
Summary
In November, the court found J&J subsidiary Ethicon had sold the mesh implants, used to treat urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, without warning women about the "gravity of the risks" and was negligent in rushing the products to market before proper testing. Patients said they have suffered chronic pain, bleeding and severe discomfort during sexual intercourse after having the mesh surgically implanted. "Ethicon emphasizes with those women who have experienced complications following pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence surgical procedures," J&J said in a statement after the compensation judgment was handed down. However, it reiterated that "Ethicon believes that the company acted ethically and responsibly in the research, development and supply of these products." A J&J spokeswoman said after the judge sets out the issues that will be used to determine who qualifies for compensation, the company has 28 days to decide whether to appeal the November verdict.