‘Confused, angry’ families seek advice against CHI over surgery fears

The search for legal advice follows an audit that found many surgeries in CHI at Temple St and the National Orthopaedic Hospital Cappagh did not meet the necessary criteria. File Picture: Niall Carson/PA

A further six families have retained legal advice due to fears about unnecessary hip surgery at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI).

A review process for over 2,200 children is expected to last until October, with clinics already running on Saturdays and weekdays.

This follows an audit that found many surgeries in CHI at Temple St and the National Orthopaedic Hospital Cappagh did not meet the necessary criteria.

Lawyer Johan Verbruggen said new files have been set up for six more families, with at least four others making inquires.

“Families are confused and angry,” he said. 

“One lady said to me she witnessed all the pain from the recovery and her guilt about that now, with the thoughts that it might have been unnecessary.”

Meanwhile, as pressure continues on CHI to publish a report regarding NTPF funding and care of a specific group of children, CEO Lucy Nugent emailed staff yesterday, saying “we will be publishing a summary report of recommendations and actions taken”.

She assured staff that no identifiable details will be shared.