Benjamin Pease obtained a patent to create hernia mesh in 1954. Pease built a simple machine in his barn to begin creating his hernia mesh prototypes. Pease’s hernia mesh patent set out many standards for whatever material would ultimately be utilized to create a hernia mesh. The standards that Pease set out are still relevant today. However, our hernia mesh attorneys have determined the polypropylene and polyester utilized to create many hernia meshes today do not stand up to Benjamin Pease’s standards for a permanent human implant.
Benjamin Pease’s Hernia Mesh Standards
- “Must be completely compatible with living tissue and body fluids so as to eliminate any likelihood of toxic or allergic reactions.”
- “Must not react or alter its characteristics even after years in intimate contact with bodily tissue and fluids.”
- “Material should not be adversely affected or become brittle by repeated flexing or working due to movement of the patient in his everyday activities.”
- “Must be able to provide suitable support and protection close to the spermatic cord.”
This article is still being updated. More on Benjamin Pease coming soon.
