Overview
The hernia mesh litigation in 2025 is one of the largest active medical device cases in the United States. Thousands of plaintiffs have filed claims in federal and state courts. The lawsuits target Ethicon, C.R. Bard, Covidien, and Atrium Medical Corp.
Plaintiffs allege that defective mesh products caused severe and long-term injuries. They claim the defendants failed to design safe devices, test them adequately, and warn the public about known risks.
Defendants
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Ethicon, Inc. – a Johnson & Johnson subsidiary.
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C.R. Bard, Inc. – now part of Becton Dickinson.
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Covidien – a Medtronic subsidiary.
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Atrium Medical Corp. – a Getinge Group company.
Each defendant is a major manufacturer of surgical mesh used in hernia repair procedures.
Plaintiff Allegations
Plaintiffs claim:
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The mesh had design defects that caused early failure.
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The mesh degraded inside the body and released harmful substances.
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Manufacturers failed to warn surgeons and patients of known dangers.
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Marketing materials misrepresented safety and effectiveness.
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Devices were sold without adequate clinical testing.
Injuries and Damages
Common injuries reported include:
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Adhesions
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Hernia recurrence
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Mesh migration
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Bowel obstruction
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Organ perforation
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Infections
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Chronic pain
Many patients required one or more revision surgeries. Some face permanent disability, loss of income, and ongoing medical expenses.
Evidence Requirements
Plaintiffs must provide:
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Medical records from initial hernia mesh surgery.
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Imaging studies showing mesh migration or other complications.
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Documentation of revision surgeries or medical recommendations for removal.
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Manufacturer and product identification from hospital records.
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Expert testimony supporting defect and causation claims.
Legal Proceedings
Many federal claims are consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation (MDL):
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Bard Hernia Mesh MDL – MDL No. 2846, Southern District of Ohio.
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Covidien Hernia Mesh MDL – MDL No. 3029, District of Massachusetts.
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Atrium Hernia Mesh MDL – MDL No. 2753, District of New Hampshire.
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Ethicon Hernia Mesh MDL – MDL No. 2782, Northern District of Georgia.
MDL allows coordinated discovery, pretrial rulings, and bellwether trials. These early trials test jury reactions and influence settlement negotiations.
Statute of Limitations
Filing deadlines vary by state. Most range from one to six years. Some states follow the discovery rule, starting the clock when the plaintiff learns the mesh caused the injury. Statutes of repose may set an absolute deadline regardless of discovery.
Special cases, such as minors or medically incapacitated patients, can extend deadlines.
Settlement Context
Hernia mesh settlements vary based on injury severity and strength of evidence. Average projected payouts range from $65,000 to $85,000. Severe cases may reach $1 million or more. Past device settlements, such as the Bard Kugel Mesh resolution, averaged about $70,000 per claim.
Prayer for Relief
Plaintiffs seek:
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Compensation for medical expenses and future care.
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Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
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Damages for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
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Punitive damages to punish and deter wrongful conduct.
Conclusion
The hernia mesh litigation continues to grow in 2025. Thousands of cases are still active. Plaintiffs with qualifying injuries should act quickly to protect their rights. Early consultation with an experienced hernia mesh attorney improves the chance of a successful outcome.