Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 July 2025
166. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health if she will ensure that all alternative options to vaginal mesh implants are available, such as tissue slings, before considering the recommencement of mesh implant services; and if she will ensure that processes to achieve full informed consent, including awareness of the level of harm which has occurred, will be in place ahead of any recommencement of mesh implant services. [37970/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn July 2018, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) asked the HSE to pause all mesh procedures where clinically safe to do so, pending implementation of specific recommendations as set out in his report on The Use of Uro-Gynaecological Mesh in Surgical Procedures.
The CMO’s recommendations include that all patients receive consistent information about the benefits and risks of mesh devices as well as advice on other treatment options to support the informed consent processes. The report also includes a recommendation that national clinical guidance on the assessment and management of stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse be developed, encompassing the full range of treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical.
My Department has recently received a report from the HSE’s National Vaginal Mesh Implant Oversight Group detailing progress made on implementation of the CMO’s recommendations. My officials are currently examining the report and liaising with their counterparts in the HSE.
The pause on mesh surgeries remains in place pending confirmation of comprehensive implementation of the CMO’s recommendations.
