Melbourne Gynaecologist Under Police Investigation for Alleged Unnecessary Surgeries
A prominent Melbourne gynaecologist has been referred to the police following shocking allegations of performing unnecessary and life-altering pelvic surgeries on women. The bombshell claims target former Epworth Hospital gynaecologist Dr Simon Gordon, who is accused of repeatedly removing tissue and organs from patients for what he described as severe endometriosis, despite pathology reports showing little or no evidence of the disease.
Over 200 Patients Come Forward with Complaints
More than 200 former female patients have reportedly come forward with complaints, detailing devastating impacts on their health and lives. One patient, Steph, underwent a hysterectomy but later questioned whether the treatment aligned with pathology findings. She described suffering from daily panic attacks, nightmares, sleep disturbances, and ongoing pain, stating her treatment did not match the medical reports.
Another patient, Mary Spanos, told ABC's Four Corners that Gordon diagnosed her with severe endometriosis in 2020 and surgically removed tissue, leaving her in excruciating pain. She later learned that five separate tissue samples sent for testing reportedly returned findings of no endometriosis present.
Life-Altering Consequences for Victims
Former pole fitness instructor Jess Foster said she was diagnosed with deep infiltrating endometriosis days after pathology results showed no sign of the condition. More than six years on, she remains in debilitating pain, unable to exercise or work, and declared, Simon Gordon has destroyed my life.
Gordon retired from Epworth in 2025 and surrendered his medical registration last month. He denies the allegations, stating on his Endo Health website that he has been privileged to work as a gynaecologist since 1997 and is now focusing on family time.
Political and Regulatory Response
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, who herself has been diagnosed with endometriosis, expressed outrage at the allegations. She confirmed that the serious claims have been referred to police for investigation, emphasizing that performing unnecessary surgery is a crime. Allan announced that Safer Care Victoria will participate in an independent review panel launched by Epworth Hospital.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas criticized the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency for being too slow to act and not taking women's complaints seriously. She highlighted that complaints against the doctor should be directed to the agency and called for improved handling of such cases in Victoria.
Healthcare Reforms and Future Steps
In response to the scandal, the healthcare watchdog will standardize guidelines for diagnosing endometriosis, recommending a less invasive ultrasound as the first line of assessment. This move aims to prevent similar incidents and ensure better patient safety in the future.
The case underscores broader issues in medical regulation and patient advocacy, with authorities vowing to pursue justice for the victims and implement stricter oversight to protect women's health.
