Queensland Pelvic Mesh Service
The Queensland Pelvic Mesh Service (QPMS) provides interdisciplinary care to women who have experienced pelvic mesh complications, including:
- chronic pelvic pain
- mesh exposure
- infection
- bleeding
- dyspareunia
- incontinence
- bladder or bowel perforation
- difficulty sitting or walking.
The service offers comprehensive assessment and treatment using a team care approach, including specialist medical, nursing and allied health practitioners. The service offers expertise in surgery, continence care, chronic pain management and counselling to support women in their recovery journey within a mutually respectful and supportive environment.
The QPMS is managed by Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service using existing facilities, such as Varsity Lakes Hospital, Robina Health Precinct and Gold Coast University Hospital.
Patient travel subsidies are available to eligible patients. Telehealth services for follow-up care will be used when appropriate.
When treatment is completed the service will transition the patient back to their local community and continue to provide ongoing management and support through their primary care provider.
Eligibility
Patients are eligible for referral to QPMS if they meet all the following criteria:
- have had vaginally or abdominally placed mesh products for treatment of vaginal prolapse or urinary incontinence
- are current residents in the state of Queensland or had their initial mesh surgery performed in the state of Queensland. Referrals from the usual Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service catchment area will also be accepted
- the patient’s quality of life is adversely affected by the mesh-related issues
- the patient is willing to participate in further assessment within a multidisciplinary service.
The QPMS is not available to men and women who have had mesh complications from procedures other than transvaginal mesh procedures—for example, hernia mesh repair and rectopexy (colorectal).
Refer a patient to QPMS
To refer a patient please complete an application via Smart Referrals—search for 'Queensland Pelvic Mesh Service'.
This template specifies the minimum clinical information that is required to safely triage each referral. Patients and GPs will be notified of the triage outcomes in writing.
Mandatory clinical investigations to be included in the referral are:
- full blood count
- liver function test
- urea and electrolytes
- urine microscopy, culture and sensitivity or susceptibility.
Patients deemed unsuitable for the QPMS will be directed to alternative care pathways for management and support in primary care.
If you would like to discuss the QPMS or need help with the referral process, phone 07 5619 0772 or email QPMSReferralsGCHHS@health.qld.gov.au