Covidien Introduces AbsorbaTack? 5mm Hernia Fixation Device Featuring Absorbable Tacks in Europe

Covidien (NYSE: COV, BSX: COV), a leading global provider of healthcare

products, today announced the European introduction of the AbsorbaTackâ„¢ 5mm absorbable mesh fixation device for hernia repair, one of the most

performed surgical procedures worldwide.
The AbsorbaTackâ„¢ 5mm absorbable tacks provide

strong mesh attachment to the surrounding tissues, while reducing the

amount of foreign material remaining in the patient long-term. Coupling

the absorbable fixation of the AbsorbaTackâ„¢with Covidien´s Parietexâ„¢mesh, a hydrophilic polyester mesh that establishes fast intimate tissue

integration, offers an appropriate clinical solution. These leading

innovative products were designed in collaboration with surgeons

keeping patient comfort in mind.
"We are changing the way surgeons approach

soft tissue repair," said Scott Flora

President, Surgical Devices, Covidien. "The

success of this new device will strengthen Covidien´s

position as a market leader providing comprehensive solutions for hernia

repair," added Flora.
The European launch follows a highly successful January introduction of

AbsorbaTackâ„¢ in the United States. "Absorbable

fixation that is as effective and easy to use as Covidien´s

ProTackâ„¢ is ideal." said Dr. Bruce Ramshaw MD, FACS, Associate Professor, Chief, Division of

General Surgery, University of Missouri. "And

since AbsorbaTackâ„¢ is a 5 millimeter device

we can use it for the laparoscopic ventral hernia as well as a

laparoscopic inguinal repair," added Dr.

Ramshaw. For more information on AbsorbaTackâ„¢ please visit www.absorbatack.com
ABOUT COVIDIEN
Covidien is a leading global healthcare products company that creates

innovative medical solutions for better patient outcomes and delivers

value through clinical leadership and excellence. Covidien manufactures

distributes and services a diverse range of industry-leading product

lines in four segments: Medical Devices, Imaging Solutions

Pharmaceutical Products and Medical Supplies. With 2007 revenue of

nearly $9 billion, Covidien has more than 42,000 employees worldwide in

57 countries, and its products are sold in over 130 countries. Please

visit www.covidien.com to learn

more about our business.