Investigation Underway into Over 100 Alleged Medical Negligence Cases at Sussex Hospital

A Police investigation is underway into at least 105 cases of alleged medical negligence by two surgery teams at the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. Sussex Police are examining incidents spanning several years that patients and whistleblowers claim resulted in unnecessary deaths and life-altering injuries.

One such case brought to light by a BBC Newsnight investigation involves retired engineer Tom Hadrys, who awoke from hernia surgery in 2016 at the Royal Sussex County Hospital to be told the surgeon had made devastating errors. Not only had a medical specimen bag been left inside Mr Hadrys’s abdominal cavity, but part of his bowel that had been removed during the operation was also mistakenly left behind.

The surgeon realised the mistakes only after leaving the hospital and having to turn around to take Mr Hadrys back into surgery to remove the objects. Classified as a “never event” – something that should never occur – the hospital trust admitted the surgical errors prolonged Mr Hadrys’s recovery and awarded him £15,000 in compensation after an investigation.

The surgeon involved in this case was subsequently appointed to a consultants’ rota against colleagues’ advice that he was not sufficiently qualified. Serious concerns about his competence were raised by senior staff members and the General Medical Council regarding this same surgeon, the BBC reported.

Junior doctors at the trust also warned executives about an “apparent increase in death rates over a period of years” related to certain surgery teams. An independent report cited these whistleblower concerns over patient safety issues.

While the trust states its surgical teams are closely monitored and immediate action is taken to address substandard care, the alleged negligence cases have prompted a wide-ranging police inquiry.

If you or a loved one suffered life-changing injuries or unnecessary harm due to medical negligence, the team at SC Law are here to help. Call now on 0208 966 1299 and get expert advice from lawyers who care.