Pictured above: Jennifer Emerson
A medical negligence lawyer at law firm Irwin Mitchell has
revealed her concerns about reports that a number of women suffered
injuries as a result of using the contraceptive implant
Implanon.
The implant is normally inserted just under the skin of the
patient's upper arm and its contraceptive benefits should last for
3 years. After 3 years it is removed under local anaesthetic.
According to Channel 4 News, figures from the Medicines and
Health Care Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) revealed it received
over 1,600 adverse reaction reports linked to the device, with a
number highlighting scarring because of difficulties with the
removal of it.
It was also highlighted that almost £200,000 has been paid
out by the NHS to people who either fell pregnant or were injured
whilst using the implant.
Jennifer Emerson, Medical Lawyer at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors,
says: "We have seen cases where patients have had the implant
wrongly inserted into the muscle of their arm. They then have to
undergo hospital investigations to locate the implant followed by
surgery under general anaesthetic to remove it. In some cases they
can be left with significant scarring.
"The reports from Channel 4 News have clearly raised concerns
about Implanon that undoubtedly need to be addressed as soon as
possible by authorities. Both patients and doctors have raised
issues relating to the safety and reliability of this contraceptive
device and the method of its insertion into the upper
arm.
"While Implanon has now been replaced by its manufacturers with
Nexplanon, it is clear that the issues caused by the treatment may
have had lasting impact on those who have suffered
complications.
"It is welcome news that the MHRA have raised this issue with
the maker MSD and I hope that steps will be taken to ensure the
safety of patients."