BD Launches First-of-its-Kind Bioabsorbable Mesh for Umbilical Hernia Repair

24th April, 2025

Innovative mesh aims to improve patient outcomes by naturally absorbing into the body post-surgery.

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), a leading global medical technology company, announced 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the commercial launch of Phasix™ ST Umbilical Hernia Patch, the first and only fully absorbable hernia patch on the market designed specifically for umbilical hernias.

"I've been waiting and hoping for this product to come to market for many years, and I'm thrilled that it's finally here for us to use," said Dr. Robert Harrell, a general surgeon from Live Oak, Texas. "The combination of the unique features of the Ventralex™ ST Hernia Patch with the bioabsorbable nature of Phasix™ Mesh is a wonderful fusion of technology."

Composed of Poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB), a biologically-derived material, with the added benefits of a proven hydrogel barrier based on Sepra® Technology, Phasix™ ST Umbilical Hernia Patch offers a unique absorbable solution to umbilical hernia repair. It can be deployed using the same technique surgeons use with a traditional permanent mesh patch, while providing material optionality. The pocket and strap design facilitates placement, positioning, and lateral fixation, and is designed to duplicate the form, function, and technique of the Ventralex™ ST Hernia Patch – a product family with more than two million implants globally.

"BD is redefining tissue repair through advanced biomaterials and expanding treatment options to meet individual patient needs through proven, reliable alternatives to permanent mesh," said Ron Silverman, chief medical officer for BD. "This marks another milestone in hernia repair innovation and further positions BD as a leader in advanced biomaterial science – driving transformative change in tissue reconstruction."

Recent survey data indicates that 60% of patients prefer a non-permanent mesh for hernia repair option, and more than 70% of surgeons would be willing to respond to patient mesh preferences.¹ Phasix™ ST Umbilical is the latest addition to BD's growing family of Phasix™ Mesh absorbable products; a portfolio with over 385,000 implants globally,² peer-reviewed in more than 85 clinical publications, with over 4,000 patients studied and proven clinical outcomes.¹ Available in three sizes, this patch enables the repair of a broad spectrum of umbilical soft tissue defects while accommodating surgeon preferences for adequate overlap.