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A draft report has revealed that more than 560 children may have undergone unnecessary hip surgeries at two Dublin hospitals since 2021. The findings, highlighted in the Dáil, raise serious concerns about patient safety, medical oversight and potential medical negligence.
Whistleblower Report and Audit Findings
Pearse Doherty highlighted the audit report into paediatric hip surgeries, which was prompted by whistleblower allegations that hundreds of hip surgeries on children aged one to seven were conducted without medical necessity. Doherty noted that the audit revealed 79% of the surgeries at Cappagh Hospital and 60% at Temple Street Hospital did not meet the criteria for surgery. He also mentioned that it was alleged some of these surgeries may have been performed for financial gain.
Second Opinions Raise Alarm
Doherty informed the Dáil that one parent who reached out to him was "devastated and sick to her stomach" after receiving a second medical opinion. The second opinion revealed not only that the child did not require corrective surgery, but also that the child did not even have the condition originally cited as the reason for the surgery.
Clinical Audit and Next Steps
In response, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe stressed the seriousness of the issue and confirmed that the ongoing clinical audit reflected the gravity of the situation. He explained that the report is currently being reviewed, with clinicians providing final input.
The report is in its final stages before publication, though given the severity of the allegations, it may take some time before it is made public, as the findings will undergo peer review.
Further audits have since revealed even higher numbers of unnecessary hip dysplasia surgeries, prompting a nationwide review. In addition to systemic failings, Lavelle Partners has also acted in a settlement case where delayed diagnosis of hip dysplasia caused avoidable harm.
See our Surgical Negligence and Orthopaedic Negligence Frequently Asked Questions and how you can bring a claim for Surgical Negligence.
Transparency and Accountability
As the investigation continues and the final report is prepared for publication, it is crucial that transparency and accountability are upheld to ensure the trust of the public, particularly parents whose children may have been affected.
For parents whose children have undergone pelvic osteotomies at these hospitals, the ongoing investigation and the nature of these allegations are deeply concerning. The allegations surrounding unnecessary surgeries raise serious questions about patient care and medical ethics.
Conclusion – Supporting Families
In the meantime, affected families deserve clear communication and support as they navigate the impact of these troubling revelations. It is essential that all steps are taken to address these concerns fully, and that those responsible are held accountable to prevent further harm.
At Lavelle Partners, we are committed to ensuring that families receive advice on their rights and options where medical negligence may have occurred.
Further Information
For further details or if you have any concerns about hip surgery that your child has undergone in Ireland, please contact Avril Scally, Partner or Grace Molloy, Solicitor in our award-winning Medical Negligence & Personal Injury Team.