On Wednesday, Chris Picton, the South Australian Health Minister, went big. He made a public apology in state parliament to victims of pelvic mesh implants. This apology comes almost 22 years after these medical devices first started being used in the state in 2003. The minister recognized the life-altering complications faced by many women and some men due to these implants, which have caused chronic pain and led to multiple health issues for thousands in the region.
The apology follows a 2018 Senate inquiry. This investigation uncovered the alarming reality that female patients experiencing complications from pelvic mesh were routinely disregarded and silenced by healthcare providers. Between 2003 and 2018, South Australia had approximately 11,000 mesh procedures conducted. By 2018, over 4,000 women experienced serious complications from these procedures. Safe and Effective Alternatives Some of these mesh products were banned outright in 2017 due to safety issues. Yet some products continue to be sold to treat stress urinary incontinence.
Acknowledgment of Suffering
From the start of his address, Picton shared a profound sense of outrage for those who have suffered trauma and harm. He admitted that literally thousands of people suffered from chronic pain, mesh erosion, infections and permanent nerve damage.
“I acknowledge the life-altering complications for many women and some men,” – Chris Picton
He added that thousands of patients awaiting the repair surgeries in the public health care system have experienced waiting times of several years. The emotional and physical legacy has been devastating, with many harmed people continuing to endure chronic pain.
“For the pain, embarrassment and gaslighting they’ve endured — we are sorry,” – Chris Picton
Picton said this apology is an important first step towards righting the terrible wrongs caused by pelvic mesh implants. He promised to do everything in his power so that such an unfortunate situation is not repeated.
“To ensure that this doesn’t happen again,” – Chris Picton
The Multidisciplinary Team Initiative
To address the ongoing challenges faced by those affected by pelvic mesh procedures, the South Australian government has established a multidisciplinary team. This inter-disciplinary team consists of a wide array of specialists. Among them are two gynecologists, a urogynaecologist, a urologist, a colorectal surgeon, a clinical psychologist, a pelvic floor physiotherapist, two clinical nurse consultants and an administration officer.
The initiative was intended to fund inclusive treatment for women impacted by adverse effects from pelvic mesh implants. Annually, up to 150 women will need continued care from this specialized clinic. By taking this structured and methodical approach, we can provide much relief and ultimately change the quality of life for those affected.
Personal Accounts of Impact
Ms. Blieschke is one of those impacted. Although she was eventually able to have her pelvic mesh implant removed by an American surgeon in 2014, she continues to live with permanent symptoms. Her case highlights the unique, individual journeys many have had to take after like procedures.
“It was found that the mesh was eroding through the side of my vagina,” – Ms. Blieschke
She explained how chronic pain, nerve damage, bleeding disorders and infections became her everyday life. Her experience paints a picture of the holistic harm that these implants have caused to her physical and mental health.
“The pain is permanent now, the nerve damage is permanent, the scarring is permanent,” – Ms. Blieschke
Ms. Blieschke told NPR she felt relieved, excited and overwhelmed about the apology. While she recognized it as a good first step, she expressed sharply that more needs to be done to help victims.
“A ‘sorry’ I guess goes a little way to helping women get the help they really need,” – Ms. Blieschke
She mourned the loss of the active lifestyle that most women were leading prior to their surgeries.
“They used to be quite fit and active women, you know, running around with their kids. They can’t do that now,” – Ms. Blieschke
Moving Forward
The federal government has since apologized, admitting that the policy was wrong. This full apology is indicative of the NHS’ deep commitment to changing healthcare practices industry wide for pelvic mesh implants. The development of this multidisciplinary team is a clear show of good faith and efforts to provide more informed care to those who have been impacted.
