Local MSP Jackie Baillie has backed calls on the SNP government to initiate a judge-led inquiry into the mesh scandal.

The implants are medical devices used by doctors to treat a number of conditions such as incontinence and other problems that can occur after childbirth.

Some women have reported severe and constant abdominal and vaginal pain following the surgery, with some women experiencing infections, bleeding and even paralysis. Many have said their original incontinence symptoms have not been improved by the surgery.

An independent review of the use of mesh has been beset by scandal with survivors and clinicians resigning from the review group claiming the report has been compromised and ‘whitewashed’. Former SNP Health Secretary Alex Neil branded the final review report as “totally unacceptable”.

Scottish Labour has now called for a judge-led inquiry with more than 400 patients who are currently seeking compensation over mesh implants.

Jackie said:

“Hundreds of women in Scotland, including some I have met in Dumbarton, Vale of Leven and Helensburgh, have been failed by these implants. They have been let down time and time again by the medical establishment and the SNP Government’s review which was described as a ‘whitewash’.

“It’s time to deliver justice to mesh victims. Shona Robison must now instruct a judge led inquiry, similar to the baby ashes inquiry, into what is the biggest multiple litigation in the history of Scotland’s NHS