Concerns in relation to bowel mesh surgery

North Bristol NHS Trust has admitted that 57 patients who underwent bowel surgery using mesh, should not have been operated on and should have been offered alternative treatment first.

In a review into laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) procedures conducted at Southmead Hospital in Bristol, the Trust has concluded that although the operations were performed successfully, 57 patients were told that the surgery they had been given was inappropriate and that they should have been offered alternative treatment before surgical intervention.

The pelvic floor surgery known as LMVR surgery uses artificial polypropylene mesh to lift prolapsed bowels.

Women had reported severe pain following this procedure and in addition claimed that they were not warned of the potential complications of the surgery, leading the Trust to conduct a review into the procedures.

This is the latest in a series of reviews into the controversial use of mesh products, which prove that the use of surgical mesh is responsible for causing significant harm to patients who receive it.

Gynaecologist Dr Sohier Elneil who has taken on the care of several of the affected patients stated: “There might be patients who have been absolutely fine but we now know there are many patients who are suffering as a consequence of this type of surgery.”

How Thompsons NI is helping patients who are suffering from mesh complications

Thompsons NI is currently representing a considerable number of local ladies who have suffered significant and often life-changing complications following the use of surgical mesh/tape and is supporting them through the process of making a clinical negligence claim.

If you have been affected by the use of surgical mesh/tape, Thompsons NI can support you. Contact our specialist solicitors, Joanne Kerr or Oonagh McClure on 02890 890450 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Alternatively, visit our medical negligence claims page for more information about making a claim.