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A hernia mesh is a surgical mesh used in hernia repair surgeries. The web-like mesh is intended to provide reinforcement and support of weakened tissue around a hernia and to prevent the hernia from recurring. As new tissue grows around and through the mesh, the mesh provides strength and support for the new tissue. These meshes are typically woven from cloth-like synthetic material, but some are made from animal tissue.

From 2005 to 2019, multiple hernia mesh manufacturers voluntarily recalled more than 200,000 units of the products, due to a high number of failure rates and other complications. The complications included adhesions, infections, perforation, obstruction, pain, and hernia recurrence. Some products were recalled due to packaging issues.

Hernia mesh recipients began filing lawsuits over the products in 2006. At the beginning of 2025, more than 25,000 suits were pending–many as part of multidistrict litigations (MDLs). Thousands of other individual and class actions have been settled over the years. Plaintiffs are seeking damages for injuries and complications caused by defective or improperly implanted meshes, and many hope to recover medical expenses for surgical repairs or removal of their mesh. Some plaintiffs are also filing malpractice claims against their surgeons.

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