Kugel Mesh Patch Causes Hernia Patients Extra Pain
December 31st, 2007 amy
The Kugel Mesh Patch, implanted in hernia patients until it was taken off the market in December of 2005, puts patients at risk for bowel perforations. The memory recoil ring, made to open the patch after it’s been implanted, can break and puncture the intestines or create dangerous passageways between the intestines and other organs. By the time the patch was taken off the market, 24 reports of broken rings had been reported to Davol, Inc., which manufactured the product. At least one death has been reported in connection with complications from the recalled patch.
Although no new patients have been implanted with the recalled mesh patch since the end of 2005, those who were implanted prior to the recall are likely to still have the potentially dangerous patch in their bodies. As with many medical devices requiring invasive removal surgery, taking the device out can do additional harm and put the patient at further risk. Thus, some doctors have advised against having the recalled patches removed in patients who have yet to experience a problem with the patch. Patients implanted with the recalled Kugel Mesh Patch should seek immediate medical attention if they develop persistent abdominal pain or tenderness at the incision site.
