Strasbourg Hospital Under Fire: ‘Last Chance’ Surgeon Accused of Unnecessary Operations, Whistleblowers Intimidated – Breaking News
Strasbourg, France – July 14, 2025 – A chilling investigation by rue89 Strasbourg has unearthed serious allegations against Professor Philippe Bachellier, a former chief of hepatic and transplanting digestive pathologies at Strasbourg University Hospitals. The report details accusations that Bachellier performed surgeries on cancer patients with no medical indication, potentially worsening their end-of-life experience. Adding to the gravity of the situation, sources claim attempts to investigate and report on these concerns have been met with intimidation, including alleged interference from France’s domestic intelligence agency, the DGSI. This is a developing story, and archyde.com is committed to providing ongoing coverage as it unfolds. This story is optimized for Google News indexing and features SEO best practices.
The Allegations: Unnecessary Surgeries and a ‘Last Chance’ Illusion
The investigation began following a report in Le Point in May 2024, which sparked concern among colleagues of Professor Bachellier. A dozen former colleagues, speaking anonymously to rue89 Strasbourg, allege that Bachellier attracted patients from across France by offering a “last chance” operation, even when other specialists deemed surgery inappropriate. Gaël, a former caregiver, described how patients were drawn to Strasbourg with the hope of a miracle, only to undergo procedures that offered no benefit and potentially caused further harm. The core accusation centers around surgeries performed *against* medical indication, meaning there was no reasonable expectation of improving the patient’s condition.
Silencing the Critics: Harassment and Alleged DGSI Intervention
Perhaps even more alarming than the surgical allegations are the claims of a systematic effort to silence dissent. The rue89 Strasbourg journalist investigating the story received a threatening phone call from someone claiming to be from the DGSI, warning them to “stop annoying Professor Bachellier.” This alleged intervention raises serious questions about the independence of the investigation and the protection of whistleblowers. A formal harassment complaint against Bachellier was filed in September 2023, suggesting these concerns have been brewing for some time. The support Bachellier receives from governing bodies within the hospital is also cited as a factor in stifling criticism, with anyone expressing doubts labeled as “hostile.”
The Role of Patient Advocacy Groups and Hospital Communications
The investigation highlights the influence of a communicator from the SOS Foie Pancréas association, who reportedly played a key role in attracting patients to Bachellier’s practice. While patient advocacy groups are vital, this raises questions about potential conflicts of interest and the promotion of unproven or inappropriate treatments. The article points to a pattern of the hospital actively promoting Bachellier’s work, contributing to his reputation as a leading surgeon and attracting patients seeking a final hope.
Beyond Strasbourg: A Wider Look at Patient Safety and Hospital Accountability
This case isn’t isolated. Concerns about unnecessary surgeries and a lack of transparency in healthcare are growing globally. The Strasbourg situation underscores the critical need for robust oversight mechanisms, independent investigations, and strong whistleblower protection. Hospitals, while striving to offer cutting-edge treatments, must prioritize patient safety and ethical considerations above all else. The rise of “last chance” treatments, while offering hope to desperate patients, can be particularly vulnerable to exploitation and require rigorous scrutiny. Furthermore, the alleged involvement of a national intelligence agency in silencing journalists is a deeply concerning development for press freedom and public accountability. Understanding patient safety is paramount in modern healthcare.
The unfolding events at Strasbourg University Hospitals demand a thorough and independent investigation. The allegations are deeply disturbing, and the reported attempts to silence those raising concerns are unacceptable. Archyde.com will continue to follow this story closely, providing updates and analysis as they become available. Stay informed and engaged with the latest developments by subscribing to archyde.com for in-depth reporting on critical issues impacting our communities.