Healthcare lawyers welcome news of 'thorough' review into surgeon Anthony Dixon
The work of Bristol colorectal surgeon Anthony Dixon is to be examined in detail
Posted on 09 July 2018
The lawyers acting for former patients of Bristol colorectal surgeon Anthony Dixon, have welcomed the news that a ‘thorough’ review over concerns about the treatment approximately 200 bowel surgery patients received, is to take place.
In March it was reported by the Bristol Post that the private Spire Hospital in Bristol had fully suspended Mr Dixon from working for the hospital group following concerns by women over the results of their mesh surgery.
The North Bristol NHS Trust announced that is undertaking a "thorough review process" of all pelvic floor surgery patients treated at Southmead Hospital where Mr Dixon worked in the NHS
The review by Southmead Hospital includes 198 bowel surgery patients to invite them for a clinical review. The trust announced earlier this year that is has reported Mr Dixon to the General Medical Council.
Mr Dixon used a technique known as mesh rectopexy to fix bowel problems, often caused by childbirth.
Emmalene Bushnell from law firm Leigh Day who represents a number of former patients of Mr Dixon, who claim to have been injured as a result of their treatment, said:
“This is a positive step by Southmead Hospital to investigate the scale of the problem, expanding their review to all bowel surgery patients.
“The alleged injuries we are investigating on behalf of our clients are devastating.
“We welcome a ‘thorough’ review of what has happened, so that lessons may be learned.”
Dr Chris Burton, medical director at North Bristol NHS Trust said: "We are continuing a detailed investigation into concerns about certain pelvic floor procedures performed to treat rectal prolapse and as part of this process we are writing to invite patients who have had similar surgery for an independent clinical review of their treatment."
Dr Jean-Jacques de Gorter, from Spire, said: "We understand that receiving this letter may cause some anxiety for our patients but there is no reason to be unduly concerned."
The NHS has set up a helpline to deal with patients who have come forward and is now writing to other people who have had similar procedures but have not raised any concerns.
Patients who have concerns about pelvic floor procedures at Southmead hospital can contact the helpline on 0117 4140844.