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Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION
Oswald touts device probe
Will push feds for review of transvaginal mesh
Christine Asprey (MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS) Photo Store
HEALTH Minister Theresa Oswald will press her federal counterpart for a review of the use of transvaginal mesh as concern grows here over painful complications from the device.
Oswald also vowed Wednesday to redouble her department's efforts to ensure Manitoba surgeons are adhering to a 2010 federal safety notice concerning mesh implants.
The minister made the comments as local women begin to emerge with complaints the devices are causing them great pain.
"I would, without a doubt, be wanting to make note of the situation that is happening here in Manitoba to my federal colleague (Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq) and to make an inquiry as to whether or not there is further review being undertaken -- just given the growing intensity and number of individuals who are experiencing discomfort," Oswald said Wednesday.
At least 1,000 Canadian women have either launched lawsuits against manufacturers or expressed interest in joining class-action lawsuits. Many times that number are filing court claims in the United States.
The Free Press received several calls from women who had bad experiences with transvaginal meshes after Winnipegger Christine Asprey told her story in January. Asprey, a 49-year-old mother of four, has been in excruciating pain since receiving a transvaginal mesh more than a year ago to help with incontinence and a prolapsed bladder. Friends and family have begun a foundation to raise $30,000 for her to have surgery in California to remove the mesh. She's convinced the procedure cannot be performed successfully in Manitoba.
"It's like a cheese grater; every time I move it's taking pieces of tissue off," Asprey said in January of her ordeal.
Oswald said her department has contacted the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority to ensure doctors review mesh labelling warnings and discuss any potential adverse reactions with patients before surgery. A February 2010 notice from Health Canada also prescribed patients be monitored for signs of post-operative complications.
On Friday, a foundation begun in Asprey's name to assist her with her future medical expenses is holding a fundraiser in Transcona. Anyone wishing to donate or to attend the fundraiser can call 204-509-8660.
Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition March 14, 2013 A6
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