Moolenaar Pledges More Action to Prevent Bone Graft Infections

Marion Resident Shandra Eisenga passed away on August 10 from tuberculosis that was contracted through a bone graft that was used in an elective back surgery she underwent this past spring. The material that infected Eisenga has now been recalled, but not before it was distributed to seven states and implanted in 36 patients.

“I extend my deepest condolences to the Eisenga family and all of Shandra's friends. This is a tragedy that could have been prevented and I will be working to make sure it never happens again. With this infected material turning up in seven states, it is clear that more must be done at the federal level to prevent infections through the bone allograft process and protect patients," said Congressman John Moolenaar.

Moolenaar is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, and its subcommittees with oversight of the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).