National Mesh Removal Service

A Complex Mesh Removal Surgical Service is being set up for women experiencing complications following vaginal mesh implants.

The national service will be delivered by a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) located within NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde and will be supported by more than £1.3 million of Scottish Government funding for 2020/21.

It will provide comprehensive assessments and vaginal mesh removal surgery for women over the age of 16 who have mesh complications from mesh insertion (vaginally or abdominally) for urinary incontinence and prolapse. Psychological support will also be provided.

As NHS Scotland continues to recover from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the service will be gradually introduced from next month.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said:

“We recognise the distressing physical and emotional effects which mesh complications have had on women and we have already taken strong and decisive action, including halting the use of transvaginal mesh and developing a case note review.

“I have now asked NHS National Services Division (NSD) to establish a national designated service for Complex Mesh Removal for those who require specialist surgery to mitigate complications of their surgery.

“We have listened to the women affected by mesh complications and this new service reflects their wish to have clear, single national pathway for treatment.                                           

“Ongoing follow-up for pain management, psychological and psychosexual needs will be provided within services commissioned locally by the NHS Boards where patients live so their care can be delivered as close to home as possible.”

Background

The establishment of the Complex Mesh Removal Surgical Service follows a recommendation from National Specialist Services Committee (NSSC) and NHS Board Chief Executives.

Earlier this month a £1 million fund to support women with transvaginal mesh complications opened for applications.

In September 2018 the Health Secretary ordered a halt to use of transvaginal mesh in Scotland and has made repeatedly clear that there is no prospect of transvaginal mesh being reintroduced.     

Full answer to Parliament