Last year, Spire Bristol Hospital took the precautionary decision to offer every patient who underwent a procedure called a ‘ventral mesh rectopexy’ the opportunity to have a consultation with an independent specialist consultant surgeon at no charge, whether or not they are experiencing any symptoms, in order to answer any questions they may have regarding their treatment.

After considering recommendations from the Royal College of Surgeons and working closely with North Bristol NHS Trust, we wrote to patients who have undergone this procedure, providing that we were able to confirm their contact details. These patients were advised to call Spire Bristol Hospital to arrange an appointment at the hospital if they wished to do so.

Over the past few months, you may have seen continuing media coverage regarding the use of mesh to treat rectal prolapse. If you have not received a letter but have questions about your surgery, please call the patient helpline on 0800 783 8163 between 8.30am to 7pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 6pm on Friday and 9am to 3pm on Saturday to speak with a member of the team. If you call outside these hours you will be able to leave your contact details and a colleague will call you back the next working day.

Alternatively, you can arrange a call-back at a time that is convenient for you by emailing bristolhosphelpline@spirehealthcare.com with your preferred contact details.

29 March 2019