Investigation Reveals Harm Caused by Surgeon Yaser Jabbar at Great Ormond Street Hospital

An investigation by Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) has uncovered significant malpractice by surgeon Yaser Jabbar, who operated on 789 children between 2017 and 2022, resulting in harm to 94 patients. The review highlighted serious errors in surgical practices, including the use of inappropriate equipment and inadequate patient assessments.

12-year-old patient harmed by GOSH surgeon talks about his ordeal

Yaser Jabbar, a limb reconstruction surgeon, was employed at GOSH and specialized in complex surgeries for children with limb deformities. The investigation was prompted by multiple complaints from families, including that of 12-year-old Vivaan Sharma, who underwent leg lengthening surgery in July 2021. His parents raised concerns about the surgical frame used, which differed from what they had been informed would be utilized.

12-year-old patient harmed by GOSH surgeon talks about his ordeal

• Yaser Jabbar: The surgeon whose practices led to widespread harm among pediatric patients.

12-year-old patient harmed by GOSH surgeon talks about his ordeal

• Vivaan Sharma: A patient who suffered significant complications from Jabbar's surgery, including ongoing psychological distress and physical limitations.

Herts boy harmed by disgraced Great Ormond Street Hospital surgeon

• Matthew Shaw: Chief Executive of GOSH, who publicly apologized to affected families and acknowledged the failures in patient care.

Boy, 12, harmed by Great Ormond Street surgeon 'still suffers nightmares'

Matthew Shaw stated, “We are profoundly sorry to all the patients and their families who have been affected by the care provided by Mr. Jabbar.” He emphasized that the hospital has implemented significant changes to prevent future occurrences of such malpractice. The investigation's findings have prompted a review by the Metropolitan Police to determine if further action is necessary.

Boy, 12, harmed by Great Ormond Street surgeon 'still suffers nightmares'

Vivaan's parents, Viresh and Namarata Sharma, criticized the review's conclusion that their son suffered "moderate harm," arguing that the impact on his life has been profound and lifelong. They expressed frustration over the hospital's slow response to their concerns and the lack of communication regarding the surgical decisions made by Jabbar. They stated, “If they had reached out to Vivaan, they would see what he has been through and how he is today.”

Herts boy harmed by disgraced Great Ormond Street Hospital surgeon

While the GOSH report indicated that 12.4% of patients experienced some level of harm, the Sharma family disputes the classification of Vivaan's condition as moderate harm, asserting that it fails to capture the extent of his suffering and ongoing challenges.

Herts boy harmed by disgraced Great Ormond Street Hospital surgeon

Following the investigation, Yaser Jabbar has rescinded his UK medical license and is believed to be living abroad. The hospital's commitment to improving patient safety will be closely monitored, and the outcomes of the police review may lead to further legal actions.

12-year-old patient harmed by GOSH surgeon talks about his ordeal

• “The review has said that Vivaan has suffered moderate harm, and we think that's nonsense, as it has affected his treatment and independence way beyond six months, which is how they class moderate harm in their review.” — Viresh Sharma, Vivaan's father.

Herts boy harmed by disgraced Great Ormond Street Hospital surgeon

• “We are profoundly sorry to all the patients and their families who have been affected by the care provided by Mr Jabbar.” — Matthew Shaw, Chief Executive of GOSH.

Boy, 12, harmed by Great Ormond Street surgeon 'still suffers nightmares'

• “I think the hospital failed completely its duty of care to patients.” — Viresh Sharma, reflecting on the hospital's response to their concerns.

Boy, 12, harmed by Great Ormond Street surgeon 'still suffers nightmares'