Mark Feehily, the Westlife lead singer, has launched a lawsuit against a surgeon for a gastric sleeve operation that allegedly caused him to develop recurring sepsis.
The 46-year-old, who cited health issues when he stopped touring with the Irish pop group in 2024, has alleged that the operation at a private hospital caused a leak that led to sepsis and the removal of his stomach.
Court records, obtained by The Times, reveal that Feehily had a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at Spire Portsmouth Hospital in Hampshire on Aug 1, 2020.
However, Feehily has alleged that Nick Carter, a bariatric surgeon, left behind a section of tissue in his stomach that became infected because he failed to remove enough of the organ.
The records state that Feehily believes this caused a leak that led to severe abdominal infections, recurrent sepsis, repeated hospital admissions and eventually forced doctors to remove his stomach in May 2023.
Mr Carter denies the claim of medical negligence.
High Court claim
Feehily’s claim, issued to the High Court in June last year, is valued at more than £200,000.
Suzanne White, a Leigh Day partner, said: “We are representing Westlife lead singer Mark Feehily in a medical negligence claim at the High Court against laparoscopic, upper gastro-intestinal and bariatric surgeon Mr Nick Carter.
“Mark has been dedicated to keeping his fans updated on his health during a period that has been extremely challenging for him, but he has faced it all with his characteristic strength and resilience.
“Mark very much appreciates the continued support. In order to respect the ongoing court process, he will not be commenting at this time.”