Dr. Yaser Jabbar, a former consultant surgeon at Great Ormond Street Hospital, is at the centre of a growing medical negligence scandal. His inappropriate surgeries on children, including the case of 15-year-old Finias Sandu, have left young patients suffering from lasting pain and emotional distress. Finias, who he treated for a bone condition, underwent two controversial surgeries that have led to continuous physical discomfort.

This article aims to shed light on the importance of holding healthcare professionals accountable for their actions. If you or someone you know has been affected by surgical errors, this piece will guide you on seeking legal support and compensation for the harm caused by medical errors. Ensuring justice 

The Case of Finias Sandu: A Victim of Inappropriate Medical Procedures

Background of Finias Sandu’s Condition

Finias Sandu’s condition, a rare disorder that causes the bones in his legs to curve, meant that he faced significant challenges from a young age. The deformity in his legs led to difficulties with mobility, and his family sought medical treatment early on to help correct these issues. At the age of seven, Finias underwent his first surgery—a reconstructive procedure to lengthen his left leg by 3.5 cm. This was a relatively common procedure for children with his condition, intended to improve function and alignment. While the surgery was initially deemed a success, it set the stage for further medical procedures.

However, a few years later, Finias’ condition required a more complicated intervention on his right leg. He was once again placed under the care of Dr. Yaser Jabbar, a renowned surgeon at the time. This second surgery involved a more invasive procedure that required Finias to wear a heavy metal frame for months. The procedure was intended to correct the deformity in his right leg, but as with the first surgery, it raised serious concerns about whether it was appropriate for Finias at such a young age.

The Procedures and Their Issues

The two surgeries performed by him were intended to address Finias’ bone condition, but both procedures have been deemed “unacceptable” and “inappropriate” for a child his age, according to an independent review of his case. Experts have noted several issues with the surgeries, which were carried out without proper imaging or updated scans.

• First Surgery (Left Leg Lengthening):
  • While the idea behind the surgery was sound, Finias was too young for such an invasive procedure without comprehensive pre-surgical assessments. A lack of imaging prior to the procedure meant that he failed to fully assess how Finias’ growing body might respond to the surgery, leading to long-term complications.
• Second Surgery (Right Leg Frame Procedure):
  • The second surgery involved the use of an invasive and heavy metal frame to correct the deformity in his right leg. This method was far more extreme than necessary, and the recovery process was long and painful. Finias’ family was not adequately informed about the potential risks and consequences of this surgery. The failure to update medical imaging and scans prior to performing such a complex operation raised serious questions about his judgment.

The Long-Term Impact

The aftermath of these surgeries has been devastating for Finias and his family. The intended outcome of the surgeries—improving Finias’ mobility and reducing pain—was not achieved. Instead, Finias now lives with continuous pain in both legs. His discomfort is a daily struggle, described as a constant companion that varies in intensity, but never completely subsides.

Physically, Finias experiences discomfort, especially during long periods of standing or walking. Emotionally, the pain has left deep scars. Finias trusted his medical team, and the realisation that his surgeries may have been unnecessary or improperly conducted has shaken his confidence in the healthcare system.

Finias and his family sought treatment in Romania after the metal frame was removed from his right leg, but doctors there refused to treat him due to the complications caused by the surgeries. The pain and the lack of treatment options have left the family feeling lost and frustrated.

Read more: Medication Error: When Prescription Mistakes Lead to Patient Harm

The Role of Dr. Yaser Jabbar: Medical Malpractice and Professional Accountability

His History

He was once a respected consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Great Ormond Street Hospital, one of the most renowned children’s hospitals in the UK. During his tenure, he treated numerous children, including Finias Sandu. Parents and children trusted him for his expertise, believing that his experience and the hospital’s reputation would ensure the best possible care. Unfortunately, this trust was misplaced in Finias’ case.

He performed surgeries on children with the aim of helping them lead healthier lives, but his methods and judgment were found to be deeply flawed. As a result of these procedures, and others that have since come to light, his medical license was rescinded in January 2024. His failure to properly assess patients, perform necessary scans, and communicate the risks of surgery has left many families in distress.

The Allegations Against Dr. Jabbar

Finias’ case is just one of many involving Dr. Jabbar. The lack of pre-surgical imaging and proper assessments is a key factor in his alleged medical malpractice. Independent reviews have concluded that his actions, including failing to obtain updated X-rays and scans, directly contributed to the harm caused by the surgeries. These procedural oversights raise serious questions about his professional standards and whether he had the patient’s best interests in mind.

• Failure to Conduct Proper Imaging:
  • One of the most significant issues with his approach to Finias’ surgeries was his failure to conduct essential imaging before the procedures. Medical imaging, such as X-rays and scans, is critical in evaluating a patient’s condition and determining the most appropriate course of action. By not following these essential steps, he ignored the risks of performing complex surgeries without understanding the full scope of Finias’ condition.

The negligence exhibited in these cases has left families grappling with both physical and emotional consequences. As such, holding medical professionals accountable is crucial in preventing future cases of medical malpractice and ensuring that patients receive the care they deserve.

Legal Pathways for Families Affected by Medical Error in Surgery

Medical negligence, or medical malpractice, refers to the failure of a healthcare provider to follow the accepted standards of care, resulting in harm to a patient. In Finias Sandu’s case, the failure to provide appropriate care and the decision to perform unnecessary surgeries fall under medical negligence.

Families affected by medical malpractice, especially when children are involved, can pursue legal action against the healthcare provider responsible. In the case of Dr. Jabbar, many families are now coming forward to seek justice for the harm caused by his improper procedures.

How to Seek Justice

If you or your child has been harmed by a surgeon or healthcare provider, here are the steps you can take to seek justice:

• Gather Medical Records: Collect all medical records, surgical reports, and any other documentation related to the treatment. This will be essential in proving that the care provided was substandard.
• Seek Independent Expert Opinion: Independent medical reviews or expert opinions can help establish that the procedures were unnecessary or inappropriate.
• Consult a Lawyer: A qualified medical negligence lawyer can help guide you through the legal process, assess your claim, and file a case if necessary.

Read more: When Surgery Goes Wrong: A Patient’s Guide to Surgical Negligence Claims

Common Compensation for Such Victims

Patients who have suffered due to medical malpractice may be entitled to compensation. This compensation can cover a range of issues, including:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain endured as a result of the inappropriate procedures.
• Corrective Surgeries: If additional surgeries are required to fix the damage caused, these costs may be covered.
• Emotional Distress: Compensation for the psychological impact, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, caused by the medical mistake.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy Costs: Many such victims require ongoing therapy or rehabilitation, which can be included in a claim.

Cooper Hall Solicitors: Your Legal Partner in Seeking Justice

Cooper Hall Solicitors offers the expertise and support you need if you or your child has been affected by inappropriate surgery or medical negligence. With years of experience in handling complex such cases, especially those involving children, we understand the emotional and physical toll these situations can take.

What You Can Expect When You Contact Cooper Hall

• Free Consultation: We offer an initial free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
• Personalised Legal Guidance: Our team will work closely with you to understand the full scope of your case and help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
• Dedicated Support: From evidence gathering to filing the claim, we are here to support you at every step, ensuring your case is handled professionally and efficiently.

Conclusion: Take Action for Justice and Compensation

If you or your loved one has suffered from inappropriate medical procedures, whether by Dr. Jabbar or another healthcare provider, it’s essential to take action. Medical negligence cases can be complex, but with the right legal team, justice and compensation are within reach.

At Cooper Hall Solicitors, we understand the emotional and physical toll medical malpractice can have on families. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward seeking justice. We’re here to help you secure the support and compensation your family deserves.