Worldwide innovation—Cousin Biotech develops pain-relieving implant

Worldwide first

After seven years of research and development, Cousin Biotech has created an innovative implant that can replace oral pain medication in patients with inguinal hernias. Analgesic compounds are grafted onto the fabric of the implant, which is placed directly on the painful area after surgery and diffuses painkillers into the body. In 12% of patients, the implant is expected to outperform pills in managing post-operative pain. “There are already implants for this type of operation, but none of them can release painkillers into the body after surgery,” says CEO François Tortel.

Successful differentiation strategy

Based in Wervicq-Sud, Cousin Frères Group has made innovation a watchword. In 1989 the company embraced the trend toward medical applications for technical textiles, then founded Cousin Biotech in 1995 to adapt its expertise for new markets. To compete successfully with major international players in the industry, Cousin Biotech has focused on making the surgeon’s job easier and improving quality of life for patients.

Major market potential

Cousin Biotech does business in 61 countries and sells over 400 different medical products: every three minutes, a Cousin Biotech implant is placed somewhere around the world. With this latest innovation, the company is targeting major international markets. Some 2 million inguinal hernia operations are performed annually, including 140,000 in France. In two years, Cousin Biotech will have the necessary regulatory approvals from the European Union, and can begin marketing its implant, first in Europe and then worldwide. Source: CCI Nord de France, Cousin Biotech