A review has started for patients who underwent complex upper limb surgery at Walsall Manor Hospital, in light of concerns being raised.
The potentially affected patients all had their procedures carried out by the same Consultant, Mr Mian Munawar Shah, and account for a small proportion of his total patient list. Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust restricted his practice for carrying out this procedure from February 2020 and he remains suspended from the Trust whilst the investigation continues.
A patient helpline has also been set up for anyone concerned about surgery they have had, that was carried out by Mr Shah.
The Trust’s own Audit in February 2020 identified a higher complication rate with this specific complex surgery – a Laterjet procedure – than is usually expected with this type of operation.
Professor David Loughton CBE, Chief Executive of Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “We want to offer our sincere apologies to those patients who have been affected as a result of having surgery by Mr Shah and we are contacting those involved to support them wherever we can, and update them throughout this process.
“I would also like to reassure patients who have been contacted that we are doing all we can, as quickly as we can, to review their medical notes, to establish whether they have been adversely affected by this particular complex surgery.
“We owe it to them to thoroughly review their care, identify any concerns, support them and share our findings.
“It is very important we review each case in detail, however, this will take some time. I can promise findings will be fully shared with individual patients as well as with the public and relevant regulators in line with our policy of openness and transparency.
Those concerned can call the helpline on 01922 604631 or email walsall.helpline@nhs.net
Manjeet Shehmar, Trust Chief Medical Officer, said: “Every person affected will be kept informed of our progress as we conduct the review to ensure they get the support they need. I thank patients for their understanding as we go through this difficult but necessary work.
“I appreciate that those who have received a letter this will be an anxious time, but I have a team of independent experts reviewing patients notes and they will determine if further treatment or follow up is required.”