How to Find Out Which Mesh Patch Was Used in Your Hernia Surgery

If you have had hernia surgery, news of surgical mesh recalls may have caught your attention. In 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration upgraded its 2005 recall of several different models of Kugel hernia mesh patches to a Class I recall---its highest level. According to the FDA, a portion of the mesh could break off and cause possibly fatal bowel perforations. This prompted an investigation into other kinds of hernia patches. Although as of December 2009 no other recalls had been issued, you may still want to know which type of patch was used in your hernia surgery.

Instructions

1. Speak with your surgeon or their assistant to determine which materials were used in your operation.

2. Request your medical records---the mesh patch used in your surgery will be listed there. You can access your medical records at the hospital at which you had your surgery or at your doctor's office.

3. Ask the referring physician. If you are struggling to get information from the surgeon or getting your hands on your medical records, ask the doctor who referred you for your surgery to help.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are concerned about the safety of your mesh patch, let your medical team know. Not only may it help you get your answers faster, but they may also be able to help ease your worries.

• Let your doctor know if you think your patch has been involved in a recall so that she can help you plan your next steps.

References

• FDA: Kugel Patch Recall
• North Penn Surgery Institute: About Hernia Surgery