Botched operation deadline is looming

The scheme was set up after complaints were lodged relating to operations carried out by orthopaedic surgeon Manjit Bhamra.

There are currently 93 claims being reviewed relating to hip, knee, elbow and shoulder operations.

Specialist medical lawyers representing patients and the NHS have agreed a protocol for the investigation of alleged complications arising from treatment provided by Mr Bhamra.

The purpose of the scheme is to determine if patients are entitled to compensation and, if so, to deal with their cases as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Medical lawyers and the NHS Trust which runs Rotherham Hospital have agreed the scheme will include cases where the treatment was provided less than three years ago. But for cases where the treatment was provided more than three years ago the scheme will be closed on 30th September.

A number of specialist law solicitors have agreed to be part of the scheme including Irwin Mitchell in Sheffield, Graysons with Watson Esam in Sheffield, Howells in Rotherham and Oxley & Coward in Rotherham.

A spokesman for the firms said: “We hope it will enable our clients’ concerns to be fully investigated and, where appropriate, for compensation to be paid so the individual patients who have been affected can start to move on with their lives. As firms, we have currently submitted 93 cases regarding hip and shoulder surgery for review but it is too early to make further comment, as cases are at early stages and need further investigation by ourselves and the NHS.”

More than £1million has already been paid out by the NHS to settle 13 claims against Mr Bhamra. Compensation payouts range from £1,750 to £500,000 with the hospital admitting liability in half of the settled claims but no admission in the other six.