We are committed to supporting individuals and families affected by medical negligence. One of the most distressing recent examples of medical negligence in the UK involves Dr Yaser Jabbar, a former Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), whose actions have left a lasting impact on hundreds of children and their families.
Between 2017 and 2022, Dr Jabbar treated 721 children at GOSH’s lower limb reconstruction service. Following concerns raised by families and staff, the hospital commissioned an independent review by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS). Of the first 39 cases reviewed, 22 children were found to have been harmed, with 13 suffering severe, potentially life-long injuries. [www.bbc.co.uk]
These injuries include:
- Unnecessary or inappropriate surgeries
- Leg length discrepancies of up to 20cm
- Chronic pain and nerve damage
- Permanent deformities
- Amputations
The RCS report also criticised the wider culture at GOSH, describing the orthopaedic department as “dysfunctional” and plagued by poor leadership and outdated practices. [www.bbc.co.uk]
One mother told the BBC that her daughter underwent surgery by Dr Jabbar in 2022, despite concerns already being raised about his conduct. She described being “gaslit” by the hospital and said she was never informed of the complaints against him. Her daughter now lives with the consequences of a procedure that may have been unnecessary. [www.bbc.co.uk]
A comment from Maryam Abdullah, Senior Associate
“The scale of harm in this case is deeply troubling. As a medical negligence solicitor, I’ve worked with many families whose lives have been turned upside down by medical failings, but the stories emerging from Dr Jabbar’s former patients are particularly harrowing.
What’s most concerning is that many of these children were placed in his care even after internal concerns had been raised. This case highlights the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and stronger safeguards in our healthcare system.
Our team can support families through these incredibly difficult experiences and to ensure that their voices are heard.”
Contact our medical negligence team
If you or someone you know was treated by Dr Jabbar or has concerns about orthopaedic care received at GOSH or other hospitals, please get in touch on 0808 164 0808. We offer free, confidential consultations.
