BD withdraws surgical mesh products for SUI and POP

Becton, Dickson and Company has withdrawn its surgical mesh for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) – manufactured by C R Bard – from hospitals and distribution centres, with the company saying the move is part of its business strategy.

A spokesperson said: “BD has decided to discontinue the manufacture and sale of pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence products in all remaining markets worldwide. While thousands of women over many years have benefited from the safe use of these products, we have decided to stop production of these devices to focus on other strategic priorities rather than continue to invest in clinical data to support additional EU requirements.”

The government website says there is no need for implanted devices to be removed and no additional follow-up is required for patients implanted with such devices but anyone who has any concerns about their implanted device should contact their GP.

A Medical Device Alert statement read: “We are aware C.R. Bard have decided to stop selling all vaginal (urogynaecological) mesh for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and intend to withdraw remaining supply worldwide.

“It’s important to note, there are no specific safety concerns associated with this recall and there is no need for people to have the device removed or have any extra follow-up checks.”

Following safety concerns that have previously been aired, campaign group Sling the Mesh welcomed the withdrawal.

The group said: “This is huge news being celebrated by campaigners, but it is also tinged with sadness, because this operation has destroyed hundreds of lives.

“It is disappointing that the Government do not think women with Bard mesh implanted need to be recalled or have this product removed.”