The Yaser Jabbar Litigation: Supporting Families Affected by a Rogue Surgeon

The background

These are families whose children were treated by former consultant orthopedic surgeon Yaser Jabbar. Mr. Jabbar, who worked at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) between 2017 and 2022, is facing serious allegations surrounding his use of limb-lengthening/straightening devices, including the Ilizarov frame, which have resulted in significant harm to many of his patients. Prior to his time at GOSH, Mr Jabbar worked at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and concerns have arisen regarding his surgical practices during both tenures.

The extent of the damage caused by Mr. Jabbar’s treatments came to light following a Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) review initiated by GOSH. The trigger for the investigation is believed to be linked to a whistleblower at GOSH who raised concerns around Mr Jabbar’s practices. The investigation, which scrutinized over 700 cases, revealed that out of 39 children reviewed so far, 22 suffered harm, with 13 enduring severe and potentially life-altering injuries. Despite numerous concerns raised by families and hospital staff as early as 2017, it was not until 2022 that significant action was taken. We are calling for greater transparency on behalf of all the affected families, urging the full release of the RCS report. The need for accountability is further underscored by Mr. Jabbar’s voluntary surrender of his medical license and the strict conditions imposed by the General Medical Council (GMC), which continue to be reviewed and enforced.

The impact on Patients: EO’s Story

One of our clients, EO, underwent multiple surgeries performed by Mr. Jabbar, including a bilateral medial distal femoral 8 plates insertion in 2020 to address her “knocked knees.” Unfortunately, the outcome was poor, leading to a third surgery that was only partially successful. EO later required a femoral osteotomy, which improved her mobility and allowed her to resume activities like cycling and dancing.

EO experienced significant pain and reduced mobility, often requiring a wheelchair. While one femoral osteotomy has been successful, further surgery may be needed for the other leg.

The ordeal also took a toll on EO’s emotional wellbeing, causing withdrawal and tension within her family. However, after her recent surgery, she has returned to her vibrant self, enjoying a close relationship with her mother.

How our group actions team were able to help.

The Yaser Jabbar litigation is still in the early stages, and as we gather expert evidence, compensation for affected families could range significantly, with EO’s case potentially reaching £200,000 depending on further medical assessments.

At Fletchers, we remain committed to supporting these families, advocating for justice, and ensuring that those impacted by Mr. Jabbar’s actions receive the compensation they deserve. Our team has appeared on ITV News and Sky News alongside our clients, bringing these critical issues to the public’s attention. We have also been able to signpost clients to a private Facebook group set up by the mother of one of our clients to provide support to those affected connecting individuals affected in a similar way.