'I don't know what else to do': Parents dismayed as spinal surgery review extended

Nineteen cases were already examined but 17 more have been identified at Temple Street Children's Hospital. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/RollingNews.ie

The independent review into spinal surgeries at Temple Street Children's Hospital has been widened.

Nineteen cases were already examined but 17 more have been identified. It is understood these do not relate to the use of unauthorised springs but are instead being described as "cases of concern".

The families concerned have been informed and the report will now be delayed to review these cases. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said the expert, Selvadurai Nayagam, who is heading up the review is leaving no stone unturned.

The review began with cases that had been specifically identified in terms of one surgeon. Mr Nayagam then carried out a random sampling of cases as well, Mr Donnelly explained.

"Then, thirdly, other cases of concern were flagged by various surgeons and they quite rightly reported them to Mr Nayagam as well."

Mr Donnelly said that he understands the concern around the review and the delay of the report. "We commissioned Mr Nayagam to come in and do a full belts and braces report. 

"So while I fully understand people's concern, what we're seeing is the strength of this independent review that they really are leaving no stone unturned which is exactly what we asked them to do."

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said that he understands the concern around the review and the delay of the report.

Megan Murphy said that her son Paddy has been waiting around five years for his surgery. Paddy is 14 years old and is a full-time wheelchair user who has spina bifida and scoliosis.

As he waits for his surgery the curve in his spine is progressing all the time. His mother said his spine is like the shape of a question mark dipped over into his shoulder blade.

Speaking on RTÉ Radio's Today with Claire Byrne, Ms Murphy said: "It is causing him a lot of pain in his upper back, his shoulder blades, his arms, his neck and it is also majorly affecting his lungs on the inside.

He has lost quite a bit of lung function already. He has not had any proper reviews in a while so we're not quite sure where it is at.

They have not been given a date for Paddy's surgery and while Ms Murphy said she is trying to remain hopeful, she is not holding her breath. Promises have been made to them about various things but she said there is no follow through with them.

She said she is not surprised to learn that the external review is being extended. Ms Murphy said that she is tired of having to fight for her son's care.

"As a parent, I am honestly sick and worn out of having to come on radio and having to go on television, newspapers. We are doing it for years," she said.

"Every time we are doing it, it is because things are at such a heightened crisis that we are having to fight it. It shouldn't be the way this country is but it is the only way our voices are heard.

"I'm sick of it, I don't want to keep doing it but I don't know what else to do."