PARIS, France:--- The French Ministry of Health, Families, Autonomy, and Disabled Persons has officially withdrawn the authorization for a surgeon to practice in the specialty of orthopedic and trauma surgery. The decision was formalized in an official decree dated November 24, 2025, and published in the Journal Officiel de la République Française.
The decree, referenced as NOR: SFHN2535391A, targets explicitly the authorization granted to the practitioner, born December 30, 1977, in Gagnoa, Côte d’Ivoire. It is important to note that this action is a withdrawal of specialist credentials in orthopedic and trauma surgery and not a general ban on the ability to practice medicine in other capacities, should the individual be otherwise qualified.
This withdrawal comes amid heightened scrutiny following an official investigation into the surgeon's credentials. According to statements made by Senator Annick Pétrus, the suspension of the practitioner at the Louis-Constant Fleming Hospital in Saint Martin was enacted after apparent irregularities were discovered in the surgeon’s medical diploma. Senator Pétrus confirmed that the case had been referred to the Ministry of Health and the Order of Doctors of Guadeloupe, with initial findings substantiating concerns about the authenticity of the qualifications. The senator described the situation as "grave and deeply troubling," emphasizing the priority to protect patient safety and integrity in the medical profession.
A previous order from February 22, 2013, had initially listed the surgeon among those authorized to practice in this surgical field in France. The recent measure amends that order in light of the investigation and its findings.
The legal basis for the withdrawal cites several key French laws and regulations, including
Article L. 4111-2 (I) of the Public Health Code, which governs the conditions for practicing medicine in France. The decision also references legislation relevant to the financing and organization of the healthcare system, specifically:
- Law No. 2006-1640 of December 21, 2006
- Law No. 2019-774 of July 24, 2019
- Decree No. 2020-672 of June 3, 2020
Additionally, the decree notes correspondence from Professor Mohamed Cisse, the dean of Gamal Abdel Nasser University of Conakry, dated September 16, 2025, as a factor in the decision-making process.
The order was signed by P. Touzy, Head of the Department for Practice Authorizations, Contests, and Coaching, acting on behalf of the Minister. This action underscores the French
government's regulatory oversight of medical specializations to ensure adherence to established standards and qualifications. The withdrawal is effective upon its publication, and investigations into the legitimacy of the medical diploma are expected to continue.