Irwin Mitchell Instructed To Investigate Treatment Provided By Uro-Gynaecologist

A woman is taking legal action after becoming concerned about her treatment provided by uro-gynaecologist Dr Angamuthu Arunkalaivanan after an investigation into his practices resulted in patients being recalled by the Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust.

In January 2009, the Trust took the decision to stop implanting trans-vaginal synthetic mesh as a first-line surgical treatment option for a condition known as pelvic organ prolapse.

The decision was made following the release of new national guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and after international concerns were raised over the safety and long term effectiveness of these medical devices.

Despite the Trust’s decision to stop offering mesh treatment as a primary repair for this condition, it is alleged that consultant uro-gynaecologist Mr Arunkalaivanan, known as Mr Arun, continued to perform such operations.

Expert group actions and product liability lawyers at Irwin Mitchell, who specialise in helping people affected by problems with medical devices, have been contacted by a number of women who have been affected by issues related to trans-vaginal mesh (TVM) products and are acting for a number of women who have suffered serious injuries after being fitted with one.

The use of TVM devices has been a controversial topic for many years and the side effects of the products have been known to cause intense pain, bleeding and flesh erosion. NICE issued guidance on the use of such devices, advising that they should be used as a last resort treatment only.

Thousands of cases have been issued in the national and international courts involving mesh products.

Sallie Booth, an expert lawyer in Irwin Mitchell’s product liability team, said:

Expert Opinion

“We have seen a number of ladies affected by TVM products, the results of which can be devastating and reduce quality of life significantly. It is very worrying to see that a surgeon may have continued to implant such risky devices against both the Trust’s and NICE guidelines. Some women may well have received these devices when there were other, safer, treatment options available to them.

“It is reassuring to see that the Trust has voluntarily recalled its patients to provide them with the advice and support. However, it is worrying that it is alleged Mr Arun has been acting against the advice of the Trust since 2009. We have been instructed to investigate on behalf of a patient who has been affected who is concerned about her treatment.

“The implications of such medical errors can have a devastating effect on patients. It is essential that those patients who have concerns over their treatment, particularly in relation to Mr Arun, seek an urgent explanation and reassurance.

“It is important for those ladies who feel they may have been affected to contact the Trust to seek further medical advice. It should be incumbent upon the Trust to contact all patients affected by Mr Arun’s practices, and to provide them with all the necessary information regarding the ongoing investigation. Patients can seek legal advice if they remain dissatisfied with the treatment they have received.” Sallie Booth - Partner

Anyone who feels they may have been affected by problems associated with TVM products should contact Natalie Truman at Irwin Mitchell on 0370 1500 100 or email Natalie.Truman@IrwinMitchell.com

If you or a loved one has been injured or fallen ill due to a faulty medical device or medicine, our medical negligence claims team could help you claim compensation. View our Defective Medical Device & Medicines Claims page for more information.