Pelvic mesh implant complications lead to NHS halt

The increasing number of pelvic mesh implant complications has finally forced the NHS to put a widespread halt on the use of the procedure as more and more women come forward with problems over the use of transvaginal mesh and transvaginal tape.

We’ve been advising women suffering mesh implant complications since the start of 2013, and our Group Action Lawyers are involved in legal action over the use of the devices. We wholeheartedly welcome the NHS pause on the use of the implants that’s arisen from a review chaired by Baroness Julia Cumberlege.

This may prove to be another crucial step forward toward justice for the many women who have suffered catastrophic and lifelong injuries caused by mesh implant complications.

Pelvic mesh complications finally being recognised

In the past, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) put stringent guidelines on the use of transvaginal mesh and transvaginal tape after increasing instances of mesh implant complications. It was these guidelines that we believe Dr Angamuthu Arunkalaivanan failed to follow that led to the Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospital NHS Trust patient recall (a legal action we’re involved in) over the use of unauthorised Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) treatment. At the end of 2017, NICE finally recommended that the mesh shouldn’t be used to treat prolapse, but the NHS had continued to use it.

Now, as of last month, the NHS has finally put a widespread pause in place pending further information after a review chaired by Baroness Cumberlege, who said:

‘I have been appalled at the seriousness and scale of the tragic stories we have heard from women and their families. We have heard from many women who are suffering terribly. Their bravery and dignity in speaking out is deeply moving, and their sadness, anger, pain and frustration at what has happened to them and others has been compelling. We had to act now.’

Increasing mesh implant complications

There appears to be increasing volumes of mesh implant complications, with varying statistics ranging from one in 11 women experiencing mesh implant complications, to some research putting the figure as high as 20%.

Mesh implant complications can range from bleeding and infections to relapses of prolapsing, incontinence and even nerve damage and organ perforation. One of the major issues is that the treatment is designed to be permanent, so if something does go wrong, women are at risk of being left with severe pain for life and unable to engage in sexual intercourse or even walk or work anymore. In some instances, the damaged device simply cannot be removed.

Claiming compensation for mesh implant complications

You may be entitled to claim for compensation if you have suffered mesh implant complications. Our Group Action Lawyers are already involved in legal action over the use of mesh implant devices, and having already recovered over £1.2m in the similar PIP Breast Implant compensation action, our legal expertise is tailored to help you.

Please contact the team for further help and assistance.