Houston Patients Alarmed After Surgeon Accused of Falsifying Liver Transplant Records

Concerns are rising in Houston after allegations surfaced that a well-known local liver transplant surgeon falsified patient records, potentially preventing individuals from receiving critical medical care. Federal investigators are now examining claims that the surgeon intentionally altered data to remove or delay patients’ access to liver transplant waiting lists.

The U.S. Department of Justice has opened a formal inquiry into the physician’s conduct at a major Houston medical center. According to early reports, several patients were documented as having medical issues they did not actually experience, making them appear ineligible for liver transplant procedures. These alleged actions may have led to severe delays in treatment for individuals already facing life-threatening conditions.

Why the Allegations Matter

Liver transplants are often a final lifeline for patients with advanced liver disease. Eligibility criteria are strict, and any inaccuracies in medical records can drastically affect whether and when a patient receives a transplant. In a city like Houston—home to some of the nation’s busiest and most respected medical institutions—trust in the transplant system is vital.

Health advocates warn that even a single case of manipulated documentation can undermine public confidence and disrupt the ethical standards that guide critical care. Families of affected patients may now be left wondering whether treatment decisions were fair and medically sound.

What Happens Next

The hospital involved is cooperating with investigators and conducting an internal audit. If wrongdoing is confirmed, administrative actions, disciplinary measures, or criminal charges could follow. Meanwhile, patients who were under the surgeon’s care are encouraged to review their medical records and reach out to hospital officials with concerns.

City health leaders emphasize that most transplant specialists in Houston uphold rigorous ethical and medical standards. Still, the investigation highlights the importance of transparency, oversight, and patient advocacy within the region's expansive healthcare system.

This article is a summary of reporting by CBS News. Read the full story here.