Hernia Mesh Recall

Have you been diagnosed with a ventral hernia? A hernia is a bulge created where an organ pushes through an area of weakened muscle or tissue. While hernias can occur in a variety of places throughout the body, a ventral hernia occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision, particularly in the abdominal wall. Over the last several years, certain lots of the Kugel patch have been subject to a hernia mesh recall due to the potential of the memory recoil ring breaking which can lead to internal injuries.

You may have first noticed a protrusion that may be bigger when you strain to cough, lift heavy objects or have a bowel movement. This site may also be painful. The bulge may be reducible: that is, the organ may be able to be returned to its original position. However, the organ may become stuck in the hole, which can lead to serious consequences if not treated.

Hernias may occur without symptoms, but once a protrusion or pain begins, a hernia will need to be treated, typically with surgery. Some patients who had Kugel mesh implanted have suffered from hernia mesh complications. Surgery usually consists of repositioning the organ and inserting a device that adds support to the weakened area. Two types of surgery are commonly used: open and laparoscopic.

The open surgery creates a larger incision, while the laparoscopic surgery creates smaller incisions and uses a laparoscopic camera to see inside the repair area. In both types of surgery, a device, or patch, is used in the abdominal area. Although it is considered standard procedure, occasionally even this solution can create problems.

In recent years, the FDA announced a Kugel mesh recall after discovering that the plastic ring that connects the mesh patch was prone to breaking. When this happened, the hard plastic break point of the ring could puncture internal organs. Patients experienced side effects including perforated bowels and chronic fistulas. To date, more than 80 people have had injuries, including death, as a result of complications from the Kugel patch.

Reports indicate that the Kugel patch manufacturer, Davol, Inc., a subsidiary of C.R. Bard Inc., was aware of defects with the ring, but may not have tracked them effectively or addressed them immediately.

As a result of the complications caused by the defective device, affected patients have initiated a Kugel mesh lawsuit seeking compensation. If you have had surgery to repair a ventral hernia in the last five to eight years, you may be included in this group. If you are unsure of the type of patch used in your surgery, we can help you identify it and determine if the defective device affects you.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options. As always, there never any legal fees unless we win compensation on your case.

About the Author:

Mark Roberts is the author of this article on Kugel mesh lawsuit. Find more information about Kugel mesh settlement here.