Sam Eljamel inquiry reveals wrong-site surgeries and missing records

A public inquiry into the actions of disgraced neurosurgeon Sam Eljamel has heard evidence that he performed multiple “wrong site surgeries” during his tenure at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee. Experts testified that Eljamel may not have been transparent with colleagues or patients regarding these errors, which are classified as “never events” within the NHS.

Amidst these revelations, a patient, David Vile, reported that he is still waiting for answers regarding his own missing surgical notes. Mr. Vile, who suffered life-changing spinal injuries following operations by Eljamel, stated that despite promises from NHS Tayside medical director Dr. James Cotton, he has received no response to recent inquiries.

Compounding the issue, approximately 40 theatre logbooks were destroyed by NHS Tayside in July 2025. This destruction occurred despite a “do not destroy” order issued by Lord Weir, the chair of the public inquiry. Eljamel, who was suspended in 2013 and later removed from the GMC register, is currently practicing as a surgeon in Libya.