Sinn Féin MLA Philip McGuigan has requested an urgent oral question on the Belfast Health Trust's recall of patients fitted with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy devices. The recall affects 163 patients who received implants between 2007 and 2023 from cardiologist Dr Ernest Lau.

McGuigan, the party's health spokesperson, wrote to the health minister. He seeks details on steps to reassure those affected and determine what occurred.

The trust initiated the recall after a 2023 patient complaint prompted contact with the Royal College of Physicians. The college reviewed 684 CRT implant cases from 2007 and set criteria identifying the 163 patients for follow-up.

Colleagues raised concerns about Lau in 2020. The trust did not act until the 2023 complaint.

The trust states the devices are safe and no immediate action is required. Patients receive letters inviting consultations with cardiologists or advising that appointments can be requested.

Lau remains employed by the trust but has not treated patients for three years. The trust is reviewing records of deceased patients, with no issues identified yet.

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