Medical Practitioners Tribunal’s investigation into mesh surgeon, Mr Anthony Dixon
Associate Amy Anderson discusses the ongoing inquiry into the care provided by Bristol-based mesh surgeon, Mr. Anthony Dixon.
Later this month, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal (MPT) Service is scheduled to hear further evidence in its inquiry into the care provided by Bristol-based mesh surgeon, Mr Anthony Dixon, who is facing allegations of misconduct and inadequate performance.
Mr Dixon was operating as a colorectal surgeon based at North Bristol NHS Trust (Southmead Hospital) and Spire Bristol Hospital, performing surgery using artificial mesh to address bowel problems.
Mr Dixon used the rectopexy technique to treat pelvic organ prolapse. He was dismissed from practice following the conclusion of an employment investigation in 2019.
The allegations being heard by the Tribunal relate to concerns that Mr Dixon failed to provide adequate care to six patients between 2010 and 2016 in areas including:
- ensuring procedures were clinically indicated for patients
- providing adequate advice on treatment options
- obtaining informed consent before performing clinical procedures
- adequately performing procedures
- providing adequate post-operative care to patients
- communicating appropriately with patients and their families
It is further alleged (based on a General Medical Council assessment) that in November and December 2018, Mr Dixon’s professional performance was unacceptable in the area of assessing and providing clinical management to pelvic floor patients and his performance was deemed ‘a cause for concern’. In May 2022, it was reported that more than 200 procedures performed by Mr Dixon resulted in harm.
Artificial mesh can be used in a number of surgical procedures and it was, at one time, commonly used to treat stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse before the Independent Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Review recommended a pause on the use of vaginal mesh for stress urinary incontinence, implemented in July 2018. The pause was subsequently extended to cover the use of vaginal mesh for pelvic organ prolapse.
Our solicitors are currently investigating cases arising in relation to the implantation of artificial mesh, vaginally for stress urinary incontinence, as well as for pelvic organ prolapse.
The long-awaited outcome of the MPT inquiry into the allegations against Mr Dixon will provide his former patients with the answers they deserve, as well as comfort that their concerns have been listened to and investigated. It is important that accountability follows in respect of any proven misconduct and inadequate performance. We are aware from our clients just how devastating the impact of mesh surgery can be, both physically and mentally.
Amy Anderson is an associate in the personal injury and medical negligence team, regularly advising claims against hospital trusts, private clinicians, GPs, and other healthcare providers.
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