The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, a prominent healthcare provider in southeast England, finds itself under intense scrutiny as a police investigation, codenamed Operation Bramber, delves into hundreds of cases of alleged surgical negligence, encompassing both general surgery and neurosurgery. Initially focusing on over 100 cases, the scope of the investigation has doubled since its commencement in 2023, now encompassing more than 200 instances of death or injury. The investigation was triggered by whistleblowers who voiced serious concerns about the quality of care and surgical practices within the trust, prompting a comprehensive police response. As part of their thorough inquiry, Sussex Police have collected over 130 statements and generated 550 reports based on interviews with individuals connected to the investigation, alongside the initial 200 reported cases of alleged medical negligence.
The investigation has unveiled harrowing stories of patients and families grappling with the consequences of alleged substandard care. Simon Chilcott, whose 23-year-old son Lewis died following a tracheostomy and subsequent transfer between hospitals within the trust, expresses deep distrust and seeks answers regarding the circumstances surrounding his son’s death. He believes errors occurred during his son’s treatment and feels let down by the lack of clear explanations. Another patient, Tony Mardell, endured a year-long wait for surgery on a benign brain tumor and now suffers from constant pain and limited mobility, leading him to question the quality of care he received. These are just two examples of the profound impact the alleged negligence has had on individuals and their families, highlighting the human cost of potential systemic failures within the trust.
Nisha Sharma, a principal lawyer at Slater and Gordon, represents a growing number of individuals involved in Operation Bramber and describes their experiences as “heart-breaking.” She emphasizes the importance of the investigation in providing these patients and their families with the answers they deserve. Given the significant expansion of the investigation since 2023, Sharma urges anyone else with concerns about their care at University Hospitals Sussex to come forward. The increasing number of cases underscores the potential scale of the alleged negligence and the need for a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.
To ensure objectivity and expertise, an independent group of specialist consultant surgeons has been enlisted to provide expert opinions on the cases under investigation. These external consultants, vetted through a nationally recognized process, will thoroughly review individual cases and offer their professional assessments. Their findings, combined with the information gathered by the police, will be crucial in determining whether criminal charges are warranted and, if so, against whom. This rigorous process underscores the commitment to conducting an impartial and evidence-based investigation, ensuring that decisions are based on comprehensive medical and legal considerations.
Sussex Police have confirmed that the investigation encompasses neurosurgery and general surgery performed at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton between 2015 and 2021. While no arrests have been made to date, the police have emphasized their commitment to a thorough and transparent process, acknowledging that the complex nature of the investigation will require time. They are actively engaging with affected patients and families, providing updates, and offering support throughout this challenging period. The police also clarified that any cases that do not meet the criminal threshold will be excluded from the criminal investigation, ensuring that resources are focused on the most serious allegations.
Professor Katie Urch, Chief Medical Officer at University Hospitals Sussex, has stated that the Trust is fully cooperating with the police investigation. She has also reassured the public that patient care remains their top priority and that the Trust is continuously working to improve services and enhance patient experiences. This commitment to improvement, alongside the ongoing investigation, is crucial for restoring public trust and ensuring the delivery of safe and effective healthcare within the trust. The ultimate goal is to learn from any failings identified and implement necessary changes to prevent similar incidents in the future, prioritizing patient safety and well-being.
