By love-89.com Lawyers representing children who have endured long-term pain and injuries following surgeries at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) are voicing their frustration over a heavily redacted report commissioned by the hospital trust. This report, prepared by the Royal College of Surgeons, examines more than 700 cases associated with surgeon Yaser Jabbar, including numerous leg lengthening and straightening procedures.
Initial investigations into some of these cases have revealed troubling outcomes, including significant harm, lifelong injuries, and even amputations. Although GOSH has had the report for over a year, it was only recently shared with a few families, raising serious concerns about transparency. Reviews by the BBC indicate that the findings point to major issues within the hospital’s working culture, with some staff describing the environment as “toxic” and labeling certain surgeries on children as “inappropriate” and “incorrect.”
Georgina Wade from Tees Law emphasized that families are seeking transparency from GOSH. “Unfortunately, the report is heavily redacted and fails to provide the answers these families need to understand what has happened to their children,” she said, advocating for the release of an unredacted version.
Dean, a parent of a daughter named Bunty who underwent multiple surgeries by Mr. Jabbar, articulated his disappointment: “I’ve been begging and fighting for information from GOSH for three and a half years. The redacted report is just another letdown and highlights the secrecy surrounding this issue.”
Another concerned parent, Sammy, expressed her frustration over the lack of transparency: “It’s infuriating that we haven’t received the full report—George deserves answers. It feels like we’re being kept in the dark.” She also shared her shock at behaviors mentioned in the report, adding, “Had I known this was happening behind the scenes, I would never have allowed George to be treated there.”
The report outlines several problems within GOSH’s complex lower-limb reconstruction unit, mentioning a “lack of a cohesive, united, and functional team” along with ineffective management and leadership. Reports indicate that staff in the operating rooms often felt uneasy about raising concerns regarding patient care with the surgeons. The review concluded that GOSH “had not been delivering a safe service for patients.”
In response, a spokesperson for GOSH expressed deep regret for the families affected and reiterated their dedication to addressing the concerns raised. They stated, “We remain completely committed to addressing all issues highlighted in the review and will invite the Royal College of Surgeons back to assess our progress next year.”
The BBC has also sought comments from the Royal College of Surgeons.
Additionally, it has been reported that Mr. Jabbar has worked at four other hospitals in London, including three private facilities: St John and St Elizabeth, the Cromwell, and the Portland. St John and St Elizabeth Hospital indicated no concerns were raised about his practice while he held privileges there, adding, “Alongside several other providers, we are working closely with Great Ormond Street Hospital to assist them in their review.”
Cromwell Hospital, where Mr. Jabbar operated on a few patients, stated that no complaints were filed regarding his treatment and that they have actively contacted all patients since concerns about Mr. Jabbar emerged, reaffirming their commitment to upholding the highest standards of care. He has also worked at the Portland Hospital and the Chelsea and Westminster NHS Trust.