Barbara Stewart MP

Spokesperson for Health
31 AUGUST 2016

New Data on Surgical Mesh Concerning

Recent data indicates the true extent of the appalling treatment patients with surgical mesh complications have had to endure and the government must act to prevent further suffering, says New Zealand First.

“A survey of 200 patients who had surgical mesh complications found that 95% felt they had not been well informed of the possible risks, 93% of patients had excruciating pain, and nearly half experienced mesh erosion and a recurrence of their original problems, including organ prolapse and hernias,” says Health Spokesperson Barbara Stewart.

“When patients told the surgeon they were having serious adverse effects 73% felt they weren’t taken seriously. Had they been listened to, intervention could have been earlier, preventing further debilitating symptoms. Most of the patients surveyed needed several corrective surgeries.

“This week, the government accepted the recommendations of the Health Select Committee on a petition calling for an inquiry into the use of surgical mesh in New Zealand. New Zealand First applauds the petitioners for working tirelessly to bring this issue to light.

“The government must fully implement the recommendations of the Heath Select Committee.

“New Zealanders have suffered for long enough. The government must show leadership,” says Mrs Stewart.

ENDS

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