Image Source Irish Examiner
Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street (CHI) has faced a grave crisis as certain spina bifida-related surgeries remain suspended for nearly a year. Alarming allegations have surfaced, suggesting the use of unlicensed implants made with non-medical parts on child patients. Two cases have already resulted in the removal of these faulty implants after causing severe harm, while the effectiveness of a third case remains uncertain.
The hospital’s internal review in October 2022 and an ensuing external probe by US clinicians raised concerns about the high rate of repeat operations on young spina bifida patients and associated reinfections. Furthermore, revelations suggest that unlicensed, non-medical parts were used without consent.
Despite promises to address waiting times, hundreds of children in Ireland are still waiting for life-changing spinal surgery. Patient advocate Amanda Santry has called for a comprehensive investigation into the use of non-medical parts.
People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy has urged Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly to initiate an external investigation. Temple Street Hospital has yet to comment on these allegations or its decision to suspend spina bifida-related operations.
The situation at Temple Street has raised serious concerns about systemic and individual failures in the hospital’s surgical practices. It highlights the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and reform in the healthcare system to ensure patient safety and well-being.