Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick has welcomed the news that anyone in Scotland who requires the surgical removal of mesh implants is to be offered surgery in the US as a potential treatment course.
This option is in addition to the treatment options currently being offered with Spire Healthcare in Bristol and the Complex Pelvic Mesh Removal Service in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GGC). Each of these options will be available free of charge.
Commenting Roddick said:
“I am glad that people in the Highlands and Islands seeking mesh removal surgery now have further options to access the surgery they need. Hearing the accounts of those who have been suffering as a result of transvaginal mesh implants is harrowing. I have endometriosis myself and can wholly empathise with anyone experiencing reproductive health issues and anyone who has felt overlooked or disregarded as they suffer through this.
“Whilst this is an important step, our progress in this area shouldn’t stop here. With an estimated 20,000 mesh implants being administered in Scotland over the past two decades, we need more trained surgeons locally so patients don’t need to travel to seek the support they need. However, I am happy to hear the Health Secretary’s firm commitment to ensuring those with implants get the treatment they need and deserve.
“Many women have suffered an unimaginable amount of pain due to complications as a result of transvaginal mesh implants and it is absolutely right the Scottish Government is doing all it can to ensure they now get the treatment that they want and need.
“I encourage anyone in the Highlands and Islands who would like a referral to any of these services to make their wishes known to their clinical team so they can access the best possible treatment for them as quickly as possible.”
Emma Roddick MSP 