Covidien introduces ReliaTack articulating reloadable fixation device for laparoscopic hernia repair

ReliaTack™ device delivers superior access, stronger fixation and lower cost of care for minimally invasive hernia repair

Covidien plc (NYSE:COV) today announced the launch of ReliaTack™ articulating reloadable fixation device, the first and only of its kind for laparoscopic (minimally invasive) hernia repair.

By offering 65-degree articulation, the ReliaTack™ device provides surgeons with greater access to weak spots within the abdominal wall, enabling them to more securely tack mesh into place. The system’s unique screw-like tacks provide twice the strength of other fixation devices and come in interchangeable five- and 10-tack reload sets.

“Developed with valuable input from surgeons, the ReliaTack™ device, combined with our recently-launched Symbotex™ composite mesh, benefits patients while helping drive greater operating room efficiency and economic benefits,” said Rob Claypoole, vice president and general manager, Hernia, Covidien. “The ReliaTack™ fixation device overcomes numerous physical and ergonomic challenges in ventral hernia repair by allowing a wide variety of angles to more effectively position and secure hernia mesh.”

Non-articulating fixation devices traditionally have presented several challenges in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. Compared to using the ReliaTack device, utilizing a non-articulating model can mean more difficulty accessing mesh fixation sites, less fixation strength, and an increase in cost when more than one device must be used in a single procedure.

“Covidien’s proven tack design helps surgeons ensure that the mesh will stay in place, one of the key concerns of hernia repair surgery. By offering interchangeable tack reload sets, ReliaTack™ helps to eliminate much of the waste associated with non-articulating devices,” said Matt Cohen, vice president, Research & Development, Covidien.

Surgeons have performed millions of procedures using Covidien’s fixation devices over the last 20 years. The ReliaTack™ device received FDA 510(K) clearance in April 2014.

The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) estimate that approximately 90,000 ventral hernia repair procedures are performed each year in the U.S. A ventral hernia usually occurs due to a weakness of the abdominal wall caused by a previous surgical incision. The intestines or other abdominal contents can push into a sac and may cause them to get stuck resulting in potential complications and requiring emergency surgery.