The Torus Registry Project and the Cumberlege Report

Description

In this discussion, John Skinner addresses the critical findings from Baroness Cumberlege's report, "First Do No Harm," which focuses on the controversial use of vaginal mesh tape in urinary incontinence treatment in the UK. Skinner outlines the painful consequences experienced by patients, highlighting the lack of accountability and support for those adversely affected. The report prompted significant government response, including a call for an official apology to patients, the establishment of a patient safety commissioner, and recommendations for improved regulatory frameworks. Skinner notes the importance of robust registries for surgical interventions, learning from past failures with medical devices like metal-on-metal hips, and emphasizes the need for transparency regarding financial inducements for surgeons. He concludes by acknowledging ongoing efforts in trauma and orthopedics to enhance patient safety, foster better data collection, and ensure that all relevant medical devices are tracked in a comprehensive registry to prevent future issues and improve patient outcomes.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230128

Specialties