Jennifer Snowden v. Ethicon

Summary

In this trial, Jennifer Snowden received pelvic mesh implants from a treating doctor for her incontinence during a hysterectomy surgery. This mesh was manufactured by Johnson & Johnson and implanted by Dr. Charmaine Oladell. Snowden sues both parties, contending that the mesh left her with chronic pain and nerve damage.

Snowden claims that Johnson & Johnson was aware of the danger of the implant shrinking, but did not properly warn the public, as it did not want to lose a profitable product. Representatives for Snowden also claim that Dr. Oladell may have also been aware of the mesh's danger, yet continued with the procedure.

Representatives for Johnson & Johnson claim that Snowden's pain stems from the same underlying cause of her hysterectomy and is not related to the mesh. They highlight the safety testing performed on the mesh implant, as well as emphasizing that Dr. Oladell properly followed the standard of care.

Dr. Oladell’s attorneys assert that Dr. Oladell acted within the standard of care and that any pain Snowden suffers is due to the mesh product, not Dr. Oladell's treatment.

Outcome

Verdict for defendant.