In a shocking revelation, expert reviews have uncovered that young patients at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) were left with ongoing pain and nerve damage after undergoing allegedly unnecessary and poorly executed limb surgeries. The procedures, performed by former consultant orthopaedic surgeon Yaser Jabbar, have caused severe complications in children, some as young as four months old.

According to a lawyer representing affected families, a review conducted by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) found Jabbar’s treatment to be “unacceptable” and leading to “serious harm” in multiple cases. In at least one instance, a child was left requiring leg amputation following surgery. Other patients have been left with leg length discrepancies and persistent nerve damage, requiring further corrective surgeries and prolonged medical care.

GOSH has issued a public apology to patients “who received poor care” and has launched its investigation into 721 cases of children treated by Jabbar in the hospital’s orthopaedic department. Additionally, the hospital has taken proactive steps to contact families of children under Jabbar’s care, offering them support and addressing concerns raised about his practice.

Jabbar, who is now reportedly working in Dubai, no longer holds a license to practice medicine in the UK. As of January 8 this year, he was removed from the General Medical Council (GMC) medical register. Records indicate that certain conditions were imposed on him by the GMC in early 2023, prior to his removal.

The hospital has confirmed that Jabbar had not been working at GOSH since 2022, though The Sunday Times revealed that he only officially stepped down from his position in September 2023 after taking an 11-month sabbatical.

This case raises serious concerns about patient safety and medical oversight, especially in relation to vulnerable young patients. Families of affected children are now seeking answers, while the hospital and medical community brace for further legal action.

GOSH emphasized its commitment to transparency and pledged to assist families affected by Jabbar’s practice, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate follow-up care they deserve. As investigations continue, the full scope of harm caused to young patients remains to be determined.