Mesh

The ACC Expert Advisory Group has now considered the most up-to-date information on mesh injuries and has completed development of new ACC treatment injury cover guidance for abdominal wall hernia mesh injuries. This guidance document will be used to assess new abdominal wall hernia mesh claims, and reassess previously declined claims, at the patient’s request.

The new guidance document is attached and more information about the reassessment process is available on the ACC website.

Another “unfortunate experiment” is how one woman is describing New Zealand’s handling of surgical mesh. Yesterday MedSafe announced that from January 4 mesh implants will not be used for pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence because of the risks. It will still be used for other surgeries, including hernia repair. ACC has paid out more than $13 million in injury claims to hundreds of patients who had problems with the mesh in the past decade. Some of the injuries include the mesh eroding in the body, binding with other tissue, and causing extreme pain. Co-founder of the “Mesh Down Under” online support group Carmel Berry joins us. Listen Here  

One News article on surgical mesh 9th August 2014

For further information please contact NZAGS on 04 384 3355