Service updates

Concerns regarding breast implants - 07 February 2012

In light of the recent concerns regarding PIP breast implants, we are conscious that a number of your patients may be seeking advice and assessment. We have discussed this situation within the Breast Unit at Imperial, and considered the guidance published by the Department of Health. We are writing to share our approach to these patients.

Patients with concerns who wish to be assessed should, in the first instance, contact the surgical team who carried out their original procedure. A number of private sector providers have committed to providing free assessment and treatment for any patients who have had breast implants previously under their care.  If patients have had implants as part of NHS treatment, they should be referred to the trust that carried out the original procedure. We would like to assure you and your patients that Imperial College Healthcare Trust has not used PIP implants.

If private sector providers refuse to see and/or treat these patients, referrals will be accepted to one of our Breast Clinics. When referring patients in such circumstances, please indicate that the patient has contacted their original provider who has refused to see/treat the patient. Patients referred to us will be seen for a non-urgent appointment, where they will be assessed by a surgeon and imaged. Any implants that are found to be leaking will be removed but, as per the Department of Health guidance, will not be replaced on the NHS.

If you have any queries or would like further advice, please do not hesitate to contact our outpatient appointment booking centres on the relevant number below:

Charing Cross Hospital
Tel: 020 331 35000 (do not press "1", continue to hold for the outpatient service)

St Mary’s Hospital
Tel: 020 331 26000

Dr Deborah Cunningham
Consultant Radiologist
Lead Clinican – Breast Services
Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust