In what has been described as the greatest medical scandal in Australian history, hundreds of women across Australia have suffered horrific side effects from a simple medical device.
Vagina mesh implants, used to treat prolapse or incontinence, have resulted in debilitating pain and serious infections for countless patients.
The use of the mesh implants has been the subject of a Senate inquiry as well as a class action against Johnson & Johnson earlier this year.
Now, Australia’s medical watchdog The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has banned Vaginal mesh implants in Australia.
The TGA examined deemed the devices too risky for women, the ABC reports.
“The TGA is of the belief that the benefits of using transvaginal mesh products in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse do not outweigh the risks these products pose to patients,” a spokeswoman said.
According to AAP, the decision was based on clinical evidence supplied in Australia plus published international studies.
The devices will be removed from the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods as of January 4.
Senator Derryn Hinch, who led the Senate inquiry, tweeted in support of the move.
“Our campaign against transvaginal mesh, including public hearings before my Senate inquiry has paid off. Therapeutic Goods Administration yesterday banned mesh for pelvic organ prolapse. Thanks Sling the Mesh for your support,” he wrote.
“Much credit for TGA mesh ban must go to the Australian Pelvic Mesh Support Group which has grown from 300 members to more than 1200 in a year.”
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