Professor Sohier El-Neil, an acclaimed surgeon recognised nationally for her contributions to women’s health, is facing serious legal and financial consequences after failing to pay a court-ordered compensation sum exceeding £600,000. The case stems from a dispute with Deborah Biggadike, a former patient who suffered significant complications following gynaecological surgery in January 2017.

A High Court ruling found part of Professor El-Neil’s treatment “not clinically justified” and mandated that she pay Ms Biggadike £200,118 in damages, along with £434,876 in legal expenses. To date, the surgeon has paid only £50,000 of the total amount owed. In May 2025, authorities placed a charging order on Professor El-Neil’s £800,000 apartment near Hyde Park to help secure the outstanding balance of £584,994.

Now 61 years old and residing in Hertfordshire, Ms Biggadike has petitioned a High Court judge to consider holding Professor El-Neil in contempt of court, alleging that the surgeon has repeatedly failed to attend required hearings and submit essential documents. The petition seeks an order that could result in imprisonment if the payments are not made and court directives are not followed.

Representing Professor El-Neil, legal counsel informed the court that she has been contending with serious health issues that have impeded her legal participation. Prior requests were made to temporarily halt proceedings due to her being “medically unfit to participate,” underscoring the complexities surrounding her ability to comply with the court’s demands.

Professor El-Neil’s career had previously been distinguished by recognition from then-Prime Minister Theresa May in 2018, highlighting her pioneering work in advancing women’s health rights. The ongoing dispute and its ramifications mark a dramatic turn in the surgeon’s professional and personal circumstances. The court’s decision on whether to impose contempt sanctions is pending.