Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, a former professional footballer, is taking legal action against a surgeon for what he claims was an unnecessary operation that ended his top-flight career. The 36-year-old, who played as a striker for Wolverhampton Wanderers, underwent surgery in 2013 after breaking his leg. However, during the operation, Professor James Calder also performed a type of keyhole surgery on his ankle to remove damaged tissue.
According to High Court documents, Ebanks-Blake began to experience pain and stiffness in his joint following the surgery, which had previously been fine. The former Manchester United youth player went on to play for several other clubs but never returned to the Premier League. He retired from professional football in 2019 after suffering another leg fracture.
The exact amount of Ebanks-Blake’s claim against the London-based orthopaedic surgeon has not been disclosed, but it is said to be “substantial”. At the time of his injury, the average top-flight salary was £1.6 million.
The case highlights the importance of ensuring that medical procedures are necessary and carried out with due care and attention. In this instance, Ebanks-Blake claims that the keyhole surgery was unnecessary and caused him significant harm.
Orthopaedic surgery is a complex and specialised field that requires extensive training and experience. Surgeons must carefully assess each patient’s individual circumstances and determine the most appropriate course of action. This may involve non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy or medication, or more invasive procedures such as joint replacement or arthroscopy.
Arthroscopy, also known as keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small camera into the joint to allow the surgeon to view the area and make repairs. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as torn ligaments, cartilage damage, and arthritis.
However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with arthroscopy. These can include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and stiffness or weakness in the joint. Patients must be fully informed of these risks before undergoing surgery and must give their informed consent.
In Ebanks-Blake’s case, it is alleged that he was not properly informed of the risks associated with the keyhole surgery and that the procedure was not necessary. As a result, he suffered significant harm and was unable to continue his professional football career.
The case is likely to be closely watched by both the medical and sporting communities. It raises important questions about the duty of care owed by medical professionals to their patients and the potential consequences of medical negligence.
It also highlights the physical demands placed on professional footballers and the importance of ensuring that they receive appropriate medical care and support. Injuries are an inevitable part of any sport, but it is essential that players receive prompt and effective treatment to minimise the risk of long-term damage.
As for Ebanks-Blake, he will be hoping for a successful outcome to his legal action and some measure of compensation for the premature end to his footballing career. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that medical procedures are necessary, carried out with due care and attention, and that patients are fully informed of the risks involved.