Expert: Karla K. - 12/29/2010

Question
I had a "stomach banding" done several years ago and it was found that the mesh that was used had eroded and I was told "eating through my stomach" and started to "affect my liver"(I was having a gastric bypass done and they were trying to determine whether or not I could have it done laparascopically done or an open procedure. The doctor that did my bypass evaluated me with a scope entering through my mouth into my stomach to determine this.
Due to the mesh issue, I had a partial stomach removal and they had to reattach my esophagus. Would this likely be the mesh that is recalled? Thank you..

Answer
Hi Wanda:

I don't believe so, but you can always ask for a copy of your operative report to be sure.  The mesh that was recalled is known as Kugel (Brand name...made by Davol Bard) and was used mainly for hernia repairs.  The only way to know for sure is to contact the surgeon who did your operation (or the hospital where it was performed) and ask for a copy of the operative report.  If it was used, then that would be the "proof" you needed to file a claim.

I'm sorry I can't offer more help.

Kind Regards,
Karla