December 15, 2017

expert reaction to NICE recommending that transvaginal mesh repair for vaginal prolapse should only be used in research

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published new guidance on transvaginal mesh repair of anterior or posterior vaginal wall prolapse.

Prof. Bruce Campbell, Past Chair of NICE Interventional Procedures and Medical Technologies Advisory Committees, said:

“It’s important to make clear that this guidance is about the use of mesh for prolapse.  That is different to its use for urinary incontinence, for which the balance of risks and benefits may be different.  The two different uses should not be confused.”

“Additionally, the focus of all the concern has been on the mesh itself, but it’s worth noting that many complications may be due to the way it has been inserted by some surgeons.”

* https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/IPG599

Declared interests

None received.