Vaginal Mesh Complications: Payouts and Ongoing Pain for Women in Wales
Twenty-five women in Wales have received compensation totaling £600,000 following gynaecological surgeries performed by a single surgeon, Derek Klazinga, between 2002 and 2016. The cases highlight concerns over informed consent and the risks associated with vaginal mesh implants.
What is Vaginal Mesh Surgery?
Vaginal mesh surgery involves inserting a piece of synthetic mesh – a plastic net-like material – to support pelvic organs. It has been used to treat pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. However, the procedure can lead to debilitating complications for some women, including infection, pelvic pain, difficulty urinating, pain during sexual intercourse, and incontinence. Source
The Cases Against Derek Klazinga
The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has admitted that patients were not fully informed of the risks, side effects, or alternative treatments before undergoing surgery under the care of Derek Klazinga. Klazinga retired in 2016. Source
One of the women who received compensation, Kerry Watson from Kinmel Bay in Conwy county, underwent surgery in 2014 for bladder prolapse. She received over £100,000 in compensation, but states it “doesn’t touch the sides” of the suffering she has endured. Source
Kerry Watson’s Experience
Kerry Watson, now 40, experiences constant, disabling pain and takes approximately 120 tablets a week to manage it. She uses a walking stick and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in 2024. She describes the pain as feeling like “a needle through my back, and it was coming out my front.” Source Watson reported that the pain began immediately after the operation and has never improved, significantly impacting her ability to function as a mother and her overall quality of life. Source
Klazinga’s Response
Derek Klazinga, when contacted by BBC Wales regarding the consent process and discussion of alternative treatments, did not respond. In a previous statement to S4C’s Y Byd Ar Bedwar, he expressed sympathy for the women’s pain and stated that he always practiced with the patient at the center of his care, adhering to the principle of “first, do no harm.” Source
Recent Developments
One woman, Kerry Watson, received compensation as recently as April 2025. Source The investigation into these cases was featured on S4C’s Y Byd ar Bedwar: Dan Gyllell Klazinga, available on BBC iPlayer. Source