These claims have raised serious concerns about patient safety in private and NHS healthcare settings.

The revelations come as Sussex Police’s Operation Bramber investigates reports of preventable deaths and injuries at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.

Allegations Against Consultant Marc Lamah

According to the BBC, Mr Lamah has come under scrutiny for his practices as a consultant surgeon at Nuffield Health’s Brighton Hospital and in the NHS. Concerns have been raised about patient outcomes, communication, and conduct, including:
High Complication Rates: The BBC reports that a former director of clinical services at Nuffield Health’s Brighton Hospital reported that one-third of Mr Lamah’s patients experienced “moderate harm events” over 12 months, such as the need for hospital readmission or transfer. This figure significantly exceeds the expected rate of less than 5%.

Surgical Errors: The BBC details the experiences of an 80-year-old patient who underwent pelvic prolapse surgery performed by Mr Lamah in March 2024. During the procedure, he mistakenly cut her bowel, leading to internal bleeding and life-threatening sepsis. A second emergency surgery was required, and she now lives with permanent health complications, including a stoma bag.

Failure to Disclose Risks: Before her surgery, the woman claims Mr Lamah moved the procedure due to a missing scanner. It was later revealed that the scanner was unavailable at both locations and that Nuffield Health had already suspended such operations in Brighton due to safety concerns.

Unprofessional Behaviour: According to the BBC colleagues have alleged that Mr Lamah previously imposed unnecessary time limits on complex surgeries, reportedly stating he would “set himself a challenge” to complete an emergency procedure within 45 minutes.

Nuffield Health’s Response

Nuffield Health has confirmed it is conducting a “deeper investigation into a particular consultant” but has refrained from commenting further due to the ongoing inquiry. This internal review follows concerns about Mr Lamah’s complication rates, flagged in 2023 by senior staff.

Operation Bramber: Sussex Police Investigation

These allegations against Mr Lamah come amid Sussex Police’s wider Operation Bramber, which is investigating claims of gross negligence manslaughter and corporate manslaughter at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.
While the focus is on cases between 2015 and 2021, reports suggest systemic failings, including delayed care, untrained surgeons performing complex procedures, and a “culture of fear” within the trust.

Recent media reports have said that the police are now working with medical experts to review over 200 cases, a process expected to conclude in early 2025.

Penny Fitzpatrick from the South East clinical negligence team at Thompsons Solicitors, commented:

"The allegations involving Mr Lamah highlight deeply troubling issues around transparency, patient safety, and accountability. Whether in private or NHS care, patients have the right to expect treatment that meets the highest standards. At Thompsons, we are committed to supporting victims of medical negligence, ensuring they receive justice, and holding those responsible accountable. These cases underscore the urgent need for systemic improvements in healthcare oversight."

What to Do if You Are Affected

Thompsons Solicitors has a long history of representing medical negligence victims and their families. If you or someone you know has care concerns received at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust or at any of Nuffield Health’s hospitals, our specialist clinical negligence team is here to provide expert advice and support.

Contact Thompsons Solicitors today for a confidential consultation.