TELA Bio launches liquid adhesive in the US

TELA Bio, a commercial-stage medical technology company focused on providing soft-tissue reconstruction solutions, announced the US launch of LIQUIFIX FIX8 Laparoscopic and LIQUIFIX Precision Open Hernia Mesh Fixation Devices.

LIQUIFIX FIX8 is indicated for minimally invasive femoral and inguinal hernia repairs; and LIQUIFIX Precision is indicated for open femoral and inguinal hernia repairs. The LIQUIFIX devices are the only FDA-approved devices that affix mesh and approximate peritoneal tissue with liquid anchors. Based on market research, there are over 1.2 million hernia procedures performed each year in the US, the most common being inguinal hernia repair. 

LIQUIFIX hernia mesh fixation devices are designed to eliminate the need for penetrating mechanical tacks, sutures, or staples by delivering a liquid adhesive that allows for precise and controlled mesh fixation. The products are designed to reduce risk of mechanical tissue trauma as they do not breach patient tissue, allowing surgeons to affix the mesh and minimise risks of complications. The LIQUIFIX products may offer greater utility for surgical mesh in inguinal hernia repair by enabling mesh fixation to sensitive areas, such as the “triangle of doom” and “triangle of pain” – regions containing sensitive arteries, veins, and nerves where traditional traumatic fixation methods could result in major vascular or nerve injuries leading to chronic pain. 

“Aligned with our mission to prioritise the preservation and restoration of the patient’s own anatomy, this novel device is a natural addition to our fast-growing commercial portfolio,” said Antony Koblish, president and chief executive officer of TELA Bio. “We’re excited to help surgeons across the US advance the future of hernia repair fixation in robotic, laparoscopic, and open cases with this atraumatic approach.” 

“Based on my experience, the device is easy to use and is safe and effective,” said Paul Wilson, consultant general surgeon, who has used LIQUIFIX in over 1500 laparoscopic hernia repairs in the UK. “The fixation strength is very impressive. I have seen a significant benefit to the patient, with a major reduction in both acute post-op pain and chronic pain after surgery. This has been a game-changer for me.” 

LIQUIFIX products are manufactured by U.K.-based Advanced Medical Solutions Limited (AMS). AMS entered into an agreement with TELA Bio in 2023 to commercialise the LIQUIFIX products in the US, leveraging the company’s rapidly expanding hernia repair specialty salesforce and its focus on new technologies.