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Composix Mesh Hernia Patches Can Cause Intestinal Fistulae
Patients who have had surgery within the last two to three years might be at risk for serious complications and even death due to recently-recalled Bard Composix Kugel Mesh Patches. The patches, which are used in the repair of ventral (incisional) hernias, were first recalled by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2005. However, the FDA has issued a new hernia mesh recall for additional sizes of the Composix patches. The culprit? Defective "memory recall rings" that lead to punctured organs, bowel rupture, or dangerous intestinal fistulae.
How Composix Mesh Patches Can Damage Your Intestines
Composix Kugel patches are inserted behind the area of a ventral hernia. They are folded and placed through a small incision, at which point the "memory recall ring" engages, causing the patch to snap open to its full size and begin reinforcing the weakened hernia area. However, the "memory recall rings" in larger Composix mesh patches can fail to engage properly, causing the hernia patch to fail. This failure can cause complications in the interabdominal cavity, some of which include bowel issues or even intestinal fistulae.
Intestinal Fistulae Explained
Intestinal fistulae are common in patients with gastrointestinal ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease. They occur when bowel inflammation "tunnels" down through intestinal tissue, forming tubes that connect the bowel with the skin or other organs. This invasive form of intestinal inflammation can cause intense pain, irregular bowel drainage, or even cause the a bypass of certain intestinal segments. Infections or abscesses can form, endangering the victim's life and leading to painful surgical procedures to repair the intestines.
Some intestinal fistulae respond to antibiotic treatment, but this treatment regimen usually does not cause the fistulae to close all the way and may lead to reopening. Surgical intervention may be necessary, since intestinal fistulae can affect a patient's ability to control his or her own bowel movements.
Are You Affected by the Mesh Patch Recall?
If you have been implanted with a Bard Composix Kugel Mesh Patch for your ventral hernia, speak with your doctor immediately and consider consulting an attorney. An experienced medical device lawyer can help evaluate whether you have a claim and help you to file and potentially receive compensation for your injuries.
