Investigation Widens into Surgeon Yaser Jabbar’s Conduct at Five London Hospitals

An extensive investigation into the practices of disgraced orthopedic surgeon Mr. Yaser Jabbar has been expanded to include five hospitals in London. The review now encompasses his work at St John and St Elizabeth Hospital and Cromwell Hospital, as well as previously identified institutions of the Portland Hospital, Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. This follows after 721 patients’ cases came under scrutiny for potentially receiving “incorrect” and “unsuitable” surgeries.

A leaked report by the Royal College of Surgeons, regarding Mr. Jabbar’s operations at GOSH, has revealed severe consequences for young patients. It details how children were left with life-altering conditions and severe harm as a result of his interventions. The report, which has been made available to some of the affected families, highlights significant failings in surgical decisions made by Mr. Jabbar.

Caroline Murgatroyd of Hudgell Solicitors, representing several affected families, has welcomed the broader investigation, advocating for full transparency. She commented on concerns regarding lack of documentation about Mr. Jabbar’s decision-making process, stating, “At Great Ormond Street, many cases indicate a lack of proper records concerning his consultations and decision-making, raising governance concerns for the department.”

St John and St Elizabeth Hospital confirmed that between October 2020 and January 2023, Mr. Jabbar performed a minimal number of adult surgeries and no complaints had been filed. They are currently cooperating with GOSH in the ongoing review. Similarly, Cromwell Hospital reported 18 surgeries by Mr. Jabbar with no complaints received, and they remain in contact with patients as investigations continue.

In a separate instance, disturbing details have emerged regarding a teenage patient from Essex who suffered severe complications that led to leg amputation. The boy, treated for a significant leg length discrepancy, underwent multiple procedures under Mr. Jabbar’s care. These were intended to strengthen and lengthen his limb. However, a post-operative failure resulted in a decision to amputate, a move made after finding a rod inserted by Mr. Jabbar had a manufacturing defect and incorrect placement.

The boy’s father expressed deep dismay, noting that years of surgeries had been rendered worthless, describing the outcomes as “heart-breaking.” He recalled Mr. Jabbar as a reassuring figure, who portrayed confidence in tackling complex cases. Yet, the lack of oversight and faulty decisions by Mr. Jabbar were highlighted in a damaging assessment by a panel from the Royal College of Surgeons.

In response, the boy’s family and their legal representative, Caroline Murgatroyd, are seeking clarity on what GOSH management knew about Mr. Jabbar’s record and when. Murgatroyd stated, “Mr. Jabbar failed to follow acceptable medical practices, lacked necessary consultations, and made inappropriate treatment decisions, with the Royal College of Surgeons panel concluding he lacked experience.”

The investigation remains ongoing as hospital administrations, patient advocates, and regulatory bodies continue to seek answers and accountability for the affected families.