)
What is the Issue at Temple Street Children’s Hospital?
An independent investigation by the Health Information and Quality Authority (“HIQA”) has confirmed that unapproved and unauthorised medical implants were used in scoliosis surgeries on children at Temple Street Children’s Hospital.
What is the Background?
The issue came to light in August 2023, when Children’s Hospital Ireland (“CHI”) issued a report outlining findings and recommendations from two formal reviews – both internal and external – which were conducted on Spina Bifida patients at Temple Street.
The report raised serious concerns about patient safety, informed consent, and the oversight of surgical practices in paediatric care.
Read our prior article: External Medical Review for Spina Bifida Patients at Temple Street Hospital
What are the HIQA Report Findings?
The HIQA report, published in April 2025, which is an independent review of governance at CHI Ireland in the use of implantable medical devices at Temple Street Hospital, identified several critical failings including:
Regulatory Issues: Use of custom-made spinal implants without appropriate regulatory approval
Governance Issues: A lack of governance and accountability around surgical decisions and the use of medical devices in practice
Procurement Issues: Differences in the procurement process between each hospital site
Management Issues: An unnecessarily complex management structure within CHI and a failure to act effectively on concerns raised by hospital staff
External Communication Issues: Inadequate communication with families, including delays in informing them of the issues
The findings point to a systemic breakdown in clinical oversight, patient protection and transparency.
Read more: Temple Street Scoliosis Surgeries Controversy: HIQA Publishes Report
How has this Impacted Trust in the Irish Healthcare System?
This incident has had a ripple effect across the healthcare system in Ireland, triggering public debate and political concern about:
The oversight of medical device use in public hospitals
The importance of clinical governance and whistleblower protections
The urgent need for a more transparent, patient-centred system
Public trust has been impacted, especially in relation to the care of vulnerable and paediatric patients.
How are Families Impacted?
Families of affected children have faced enormous emotional and psychological stress, including:
Worry over unexplained complications following surgery
Frustration at the lack of transparency and delayed communication from the hospital
Concerns about long-term health implications for their children
These families need support, clear explanations and full transparency. They need answers to move forward in what is undoubtedly a very distressing situation and they require clear explanation as to why this happened, how was it allowed to happen and what policies will be put in place to ensure that it doesn’t happen again in the future.
What are the Next Steps for Families Affected?
If you believe your child may have been affected by the use of unapproved devices, experienced complications as a result of delayed surgery or subsequent to a Scoliosis surgical procedure:
Seek a full copy of your child’s medical records and surgical reports. We can make this request on your behalf once we have your written authority
Speak to your GP or a specialist for a clinical assessment and a second opinion
Speak to a Solicitor experienced in Medical Negligence to understand your legal rights and options
How Can We Help Families Affected?
We support families and individuals who have been impacted by Medical Negligence and failures of Duty of Care.
We work closely with leading medical experts including orthopaedic and spinal surgeons who will review your child’s case and medical documentation
They will advise on whether grounds for a potential claim exist
We provide compassionate, clear guidance throughout the process
Conclusion
The HIQA report makes clear that the incorrect implementation of the springs was fostered by institutional failings with the CHI.
While the report acknowledges CHI’s measures to address these failures, it remains to be seen whether suitable systemic change takes place to prevent such incidents ever affecting families again and the lasting impact on the Irish healthcare system.
Further Information
For expert legal advice or guidance if you have been affected by these developments, please contact Avril Scally (Partner) or Avril Carroll (Solicitor) in our award-winning Medical Negligence & Personal Injury Team.
:format(auto))
:format(auto))
:format(auto))
:format(auto))
:format(auto))
:format(auto))