Hernia Patch FAQ
What is a hernia?
A hernia occurs when part of an abdominal organ—such as the intestine or bowel—pushes through a weak spot in a person’s abdominal wall. Pregnant women and obese patients are at high risk, as are people who have previously undergone abdominal surgery. There are two kinds of hernias: inguinal (groin) and ventral (abdominal).
How are hernias treated?
As medical technology has progressed, more doctors are doing laparoscopy to treat hernias. That is, they use a device that allows them to see the interior of the abdomen even while performing surgery. This procedure requires small incisions, and recovery time is quick.
Don’t some doctors use a mesh patch for hernia repair?
Yes—such as the Composix Kugel mesh patch, which is designed to reinforce the area of a hernia. An incision is made and the folded mesh patch is placed behind the hernia area. The “memory-recoil ring” causes the patch to spring open, and it lies flat on the abdominal wall, reinforcing and allowing the hernia to heal.
When did reports of side effects with the Kugel mesh patch first appear?
There were no major problems until 2002, at which time Davol Inc. introduced its large and extra large models of the Kugel mesh patch. The company was soon getting reports of the memory-recoil ring breaking, causing injury to internal organs and tissues—such as bowel perforations and fistulas.
Has the manufacturer issued a Kugel hernia patch recall?
Davol, maker and distributor of the Kugel mesh hernia patch, has issued no fewer than three hernia patch recalls since December 2005. This pertains only to the large and extra large versions of the device, however.
Has anyone died as a result of the Kugel mesh hernia patch?
According to the Food and Drug Administration, there have been “several” deaths.
Have there been any Kugel mesh hernia patch lawsuits?
Yes, the first of which was filed in December 2006. Further legal action is sure to come since it appears that Davol is alleged to have known of the problems with the hernia patch for at least three years before the first Kugel recall was issued.
What should I do if I’ve been injured by the Kugel mesh hernia patch?
If you have been affected by a hernia patch failure or would like to learn more about the hernia patch recall, by all means contact your physician. Then, you may wish to meet with an attorney who has medical device experience. Such a lawyer can help assess your case and help you with your claim against Davol.