It has very recently emerged that over 800 women are taking legal action against the NHS and several manufacturers over Vaginal Mesh Implants described as ‘barbaric’ by patients.
The implanted mesh is used to treat organ prolapse and incontinence generally after childbirth. It is estimated that around 1,500 implants are performed every year by the NHS to act as a support for the virginal wall, bladder, bowel, uterus or urethra. Between 2007 and 2015, according to NHS digital, 11,500 women had vaginal mesh implants in England. The meshes are made of polypropylene, the same material used to manufacture certain drinks bottles and plastic chairs with Johnson & Johnson being the largest manufacturer.
Although the implants have been successful in most cases, many hundreds of women have reported severe problem following the implant with around 1 in 11 women reporting complications.
In many cases, the mesh has perforated the lining of the vagina causing severe permanent pain, nerve damage and even disability. It has meant that many women have been unable to walk or work, along with their personal relationship also being impacted.
One woman had to be admitted to hospital 53 times due to “agonising pain” caused by the vaginal mesh. Many other women have described similar symptoms with some reporting that the extent of the perforation was so severe their partners had been injured by the mesh during intercourse. Another woman was driven to thoughts of suicide by the impact of the implants. The BBC has reported that many of the women they interviewed were not advised of the potential risks and complications before the procedure.
There have been calls to ban the use of the implants with Labour MP Owen Smith calling for an investigation into the use of the mess. Mr Smith is also planning to hold a Parliamentary debate on the issue.
Despite the fact that thousands of women have sued manufacturers in the US and have received compensation, Ethicon, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson is “vigorously defending litigation”. Ethicon state “these devices have helped millions of women”.
The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) state that in the majority of cases vaginal mesh implants are safe and effective. Currently, no recall has been made by any of the manufacturers and vaginal mesh implants are still routinely being prescribed on the NHS across the country.
An MHRA spokesman said it was “committed to help address the serious concerns raised by some patients”. “The greater proportion of the clinical community and patients support the use of these devices in the UK.”
It remains to be seen whether MHRA, the NHS and manufactures will alter their stance and take decisive action in light of experts warning that payment of compensation could reach tens of millions of pounds.
If you would like more information or advice on pursuing a claim for compensation, please contact a member of our Medical Negligence team on 0800 024 1976.