Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has said she remains convinced of the need to suspend the use of mesh in hernia repair procedures in Northern Ireland.Ms Bradshaw was speaking after meeting the Chief Medical Officer alongside representatives from the campaign group Hernia Mesh NI.
“I am pleased we have two clear commitments from today’s meeting – patient information before surgery will be improved and consultation involving campaigners will begin on a pathway for hernia mesh patients,” she said.
“We discussed also the urgent need for much improved information and data concerning complications arising from the use of mesh in hernia repair.
“As we have seen in the case of vaginal mesh, I impressed upon the Chief Medical Officer the view of many patients there should be suspension of the use of mesh in Northern Ireland, at least pending further research and clearer UK-wide guidance. I hope this will be the case sooner rather than later.”