You may have seen reports in the media about Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre carrying out an independent review of colonoscopy procedures performed at the Centre between October 2005 and March 2008.
The review was completed in September 2008 and we have written to all patients whose colonoscopies were reviewed, as well as their GPs, to let them know the findings of the review its recommendations.
The review found that all colonoscopies had been carried out in a safe manner, but that – in some cases – the colonoscopies were not as complete as they should have been. In other words, the views of the colon may have been poor, or there may have been other technically poor observations.
Because Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre is one of the few hospitals in the country to record colonoscopies onto DVD, we have been able to carry out this comprehensive review, often without the need for further investigation in many cases.
The outcome of the review is that some patients will need take no further action; some will need to book a routine appointment with their GP and others will need a follow up investigation.
We have written to all patients to let them know what action has been recommended in their particular case, as well as informing their GP.
Patient safety is a priority for us at Shepton Mallet NHS Treatment Centre and if you are a patient and have any queries or concerns about this review, you can contact our patient information line on 0800 412 5575.
Media calls should be directed to our Press Office:
Alex Woolfall: 0207 861 2513
Nico de Klerk: 0207 861 2509