Home / Crime and Justice / Logbook Destruction Blamed on System Failure
Logbook Destruction Blamed on System Failure
17 Aug
Summary
- 40 logbooks potentially linked to surgeon Eljamel were destroyed.
- Destruction occurred despite an active 'do not destroy' notice.
- An external investigation cited inadequate systems, not malice.
An external investigation has concluded that the destruction of 40 logbooks, possibly concerning disgraced surgeon Sam Eljamel, was due to "inadequate systems and processes." Eljamel, formerly head of neurosurgery at Dundee's Ninewells Hospital, was suspended in December 2013 after harming numerous patients.
The logbooks were destroyed in July 2025, defying a "do not destroy" notice issued in October 2024 for a public inquiry. NHS Tayside acknowledged the report's findings and has committed to implementing its 15 recommendations.
Key factors identified included poor communication of the notice and a lack of clear guidance for retaining theatre logbooks. The investigation found no malicious intent, noting that all information should be available in existing clinical systems. Eljamel resigned in 2014 and is reportedly now practicing in Libya.
