Surgeon's Amputation Warning Leads to Major Patient Recall Investigation
A young patient was informed by a surgeon that her hand might require removal, only for another consultant to later state there was absolutely no necessity for such an amputation. This alarming discrepancy has ignited a significant investigation into the practices of hand specialist Leslie Irwin, prompting a patient recall notice at a private hospital.
Georgia Spargo's Painful Journey
Georgia Spargo, now 28, first encountered Leslie Irwin when she was 14 years old, seeking treatment for pain in her right wrist caused by Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a rare inherited condition affecting connective tissue. Initially describing Irwin as "the most lovely man" with a constant smile, Georgia trusted him implicitly. Her pain from writing and typing at school was manageable, but Irwin recommended surgery to tighten her tendons. Post-operation, her pain intensified dramatically, a consequence she now understands is common with EDS.
At subsequent appointments, Irwin diagnosed her with Kienböck’s disease, a rare condition impairing blood supply to the bone, and proposed further surgeries. Over the next decade, Georgia underwent four additional operations under his care, including bone removal, wrist fusion, and the insertion and removal of metalwork. In 2021, Irwin delivered what she called a "bombshell", suggesting amputation to eliminate her wrist pain. Georgia recalled, "I was terrified."
Investigation and Patient Recall Unfold
Following Irwin's retirement from the NHS in 2022, Georgia's new surgeon contradicted the amputation advice, stating there was no reason whatsoever for such a procedure. This revelation has left Georgia in extreme pain, unable to use her hand, and reliant on a brace, impacting her ability to work and perform daily tasks like brushing her hair or typing.
Spire Healthcare, where Irwin practised at Spire Washington Hospital in Tyne and Wear from 2001 to 2023, has suspended him and withdrawn his practising privileges. They are currently reviewing specific procedures for a select cohort of his patients, issuing a patient recall notice in line with NHS England’s National Quality Board framework. A spokesperson confirmed, "We are in direct contact with all relevant patients to review their care and offer support."
Unprecedented Legal Response
Medical negligence lawyers report an unprecedented number of Irwin's former patients coming forward, with some alleging up to 30 surgeries. Solicitor John Lowther noted, "There is a very significant number of cases coming forward, unprecedented in my career." Georgia is being supported by Slater and Gordon, who are investigating multiple cases against Irwin.
Heather Moore, a specialist clinical negligence lawyer representing Georgia, emphasized, "Georgia has many questions about the care she received... We will leave no stone unturned in finding the answers she needs." The Care Quality Commission is also investigating, with an inspection report of Spire Hospital imminent.
Defence from Irwin's Family
Irwin's wife, a retired nurse, has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them a "total, complete lie." She argued that Irwin cannot defend himself due to General Medical Council rules after deregistering last year. She stated, "I can guarantee you that she was not offered amputation by my husband... he never would have done that." She expressed concern that his 40-year career is being tarnished by social media innuendo.
Ongoing Reviews and Support
South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, where Irwin worked from 1999 until 2022, is liaising with Spire to determine which NHS patients may need review. A trust spokesperson said, "We will contact those people directly as a matter of priority." Patients with concerns are urged to contact Spire Healthcare or legal firms like Slater and Gordon for support and investigation into their individual cases.
