French Breast Implant Maker Arrested After PIP Scandal
Marisa Krystian | Jan 26, 2012 2:38pm EST | 1min:25sec
Jean-Claude Mas, the founder of French breast implant company PIP was arrested on Thursday by national police in a small Riviera town.
The implants made by the now defunct PIP were pulled from the market in several countries after ruptures and silicone leaks affected tens of thousands of women worldwide.
Mas allegedly used industrial-grade silicone in the implants, an unapproved, cheaper and more dangerous alternative to medical-grade gel, according to The Associated Press.
CNN reported that the silicone used is "believed by the manufacturers to be made for mattresses."
Interpol sent out a "red notice" for Mas, who was charged with "life and health" offenses, in June.
Mas is currently being detained at his home.
In its heyday, PIP boasted selling to 60 countries. Silicone-gel implants are not legal in the United States, although some in the profession have been pushing the government to allow the product.
Congress is set to vote on new medical device legislation in September.
Governments are now wondering if there needs to be a full product recall of PIP implants.
The AP estimates that 42,000 women in Britain received the implants, along with 30,000 in France, 9,000 in Australia, 4,000 in Italy, and 25,000 in Brazil.
