Melbourne surgeon George Dimitroulis accused of negligence over ‘experimental’ jaw device

·

Dr George Dimitroulis, a Melbourne surgeon, is being sued by a former patient in a Victorian court. The patient claims that Dr Dimitroulis failed to inform her that he invented an “experimental” device used in her jaw joint replacement surgery. She also alleges that he created the classification system used to diagnose her condition, which led to the surgery.

According to court documents, the patient, referred to as Bianca*, was not fully advised of the risks associated with the operation. She claims the surgery resulted in life-changing injuries, chronic pain, and inability to work. The lawsuit also states that Dr Dimitroulis’ classification system is not widely adopted by other surgeons and that less invasive treatments were available.

Dr Dimitroulis has denied any negligence or that the device, known as an OMX prosthesis, caused Bianca’s injuries. His defence argued that his practices were in line with widely accepted professional standards in Australia.

The patient, who does not want to be identified, claims the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement left her unable to work and with chronic pain.
The patient, who does not want to be identified, claims the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement left her unable to work and with chronic pain. Photo: The Guardian Australia.

The lawsuit, filed by law firm Slater & Gordon, references a research paper authored by Dr Dimitroulis in 2013, which proposed a new surgical classification for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Bianca alleges that Dr Dimitroulis used this system to diagnose her with “level 5” disease and recommend surgery as her only option. She claims she was not informed that the OMX TMJ prosthesis was experimental or of the potential risks, which included facial paralysis, chronic pain, and ear damage.

In his defence, Dr Dimitroulis asserted that he informed Bianca of his role in designing the OMX TMJ prosthesis and discussed the known risks of the surgery with her. He denies that he failed to offer nonsurgical treatment options and claims Bianca described her pre-surgery pain as moderate.

This case follows a previous investigation by the medical regulator, which found Dr Dimitroulis had not properly warned another patient of potential nerve injuries from TMJ replacement surgery, leading to disciplinary action. He completed additional training on informed consent and record keeping, and no conditions remain on his practice.

*Name changed to protect patient confidentiality.

Source: The Guardian.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

Professor James Stellios appointed to the Federal Court of Australia

Attorney General, The Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP, announced the appointment of eight new judges to the Federal Court of Australia.

COVID-19 cases in Greece skyrocket to a record 3,465 despite lockdown

While Greece has been under lockdown for months, the country recorded the highest number of coronavirus cases on Wednesday.

Oakleigh Cannons and Dandenong Thunder issued with sanctions after match incident

On Thursday, April 4, Football Victoria confirmed that both Oakleigh Cannons FC and Dandenong Thunder FC were issued with sanctions.