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Investigation Launched Into Children's Orthopaedic Surgery
Last Updated on March 28, 2025 by tanya
Investigation Launched Into Children’s Orthopaedic Surgery
Specialist Surgeon Suspended Amid Concerns Over Treatment Standards
A wider investigation is set to take place following a review of children’s orthopaedic surgeries performed at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. A specialist surgeon has also been suspended in connection to the review. Initiated by the Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH) NHS Foundation Trust, the further inquiry aims to assess the quality of care provided in orthopaedic surgeries conducted at the hospital over a two and a half year period.
According to media reports, the suspended surgeon, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, also carried out procedures on adult patients. The forthcoming review will focus on approximately 700 patients who underwent scheduled surgeries. This is in addition to 100 patients—both children and adults—who received emergency treatments.
Findings from Initial Review Raise Concerns
CUH Chief Executive, Ronald Sinker confirmed that an initial external review was undertaken by an independent specialist. This preliminary investigation examined paediatric hip surgeries performed at the hospital. The findings indicated that the surgical outcomes for nine children fell below the expected standard of care.
Given these concerns, the Trust has commissioned an expanded external review to thoroughly evaluate the cases of all affected patients and their families. The review will determine whether additional instances of substandard care resulted in adverse outcomes.
Paediatric Hip Surgery and Potential Harm
Orthopaedic surgeries, particularly those involving paediatric hip conditions, come with inherent risks. Surgeons and medical professionals must adhere to stringent standards to ensure patient safety. Errors resulting from medical negligence can have long-lasting or even life-altering consequences. This may include misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, inadequate post-operative care, or failure to provide informed consent.
If your child has experienced harm due to medical errors, you have the right to explore legal options, including clinical negligence claims, to seek accountability and compensation.
Pursuing a Clinical Negligence Claim
If you suspect that your child has suffered harm due to negligent medical care, you may be eligible to file a clinical negligence claim. To file such a claim, it must be demonstrated that the medical professional failed to meet the required standard of care and that this failure directly caused the injury or harm.
In most cases, a clinical negligence claim must be filed within three years of the incident or from the date when the harm was first identified. However, for minors, the three-year limitation period does not begin until their 18th birthday. This allows them to seek a claim up until their 21st birthday.
How We Can Help
At First Personal Injury, we understand how distressing medical negligence cases can be for families. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. We collaborate with experienced lawyers who will carefully evaluate your case and work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. This approach ensures you have access to justice without financial risk.
For expert legal guidance, contact us today at 0333 358 2345. Alternatively, you can complete our online contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our friendly team.