A damning report from Great Ormond Street Hospital has concluded that 94 young patients suffered harm under the care of a former orthopaedic surgeon, with 36 children experiencing severe consequences from his treatment.
Review Uncovers Extent of Harm
The hospital, known internationally for its paediatric care, released the findings of a comprehensive review into the actions of Yaser Jabbar, who treated hundreds of children between 2017 and 2022. The investigation focused specifically on his work in lower limb reconstruction procedures.
Breakdown of Patient Impact
The detailed analysis categorised the harm experienced by patients under Jabbar's care. According to the report, 36 children suffered severe harm, while a further 39 patients experienced moderate harm and 19 patients came to mild harm. The review also noted that 642 patients treated by Jabbar did not suffer harm attributable to the surgeon.
Surgeon's Current Status
Yaser Jabbar, who is understood to be living abroad, no longer holds a licence to practise medicine in the United Kingdom. The hospital's review represents a significant step in addressing concerns about his clinical practice during his five-year tenure at the prestigious institution.
Hospital Response and Context
Great Ormond Street Hospital conducted the review as part of its commitment to patient safety and transparency. The findings highlight the importance of robust clinical governance systems within NHS hospitals, particularly those treating vulnerable paediatric patients.
The release of this information comes as healthcare institutions across the UK face increasing scrutiny regarding patient safety protocols and surgeon performance monitoring. The case raises important questions about how such situations develop over extended periods within major teaching hospitals.
Implications for Healthcare Regulation
This incident underscores the critical need for effective oversight mechanisms within medical institutions. The fact that harm occurred to nearly a hundred patients over five years before being formally identified and addressed suggests potential gaps in existing monitoring systems.
The hospital has not disclosed specific details about the nature of the harm suffered by patients or whether any disciplinary action was taken against Jabbar during his employment. The focus now shifts to ensuring affected families receive appropriate support and that lessons are learned to prevent similar occurrences in future.
