Abdominal Surgery Complications

Background

Mrs D underwent a straightforward hernia repair at her local hospital. She was told that the surgery was a success and was discharged home. However, three weeks later she developed severe pain in her abdomen and had to be re-admitted back to the hospital as an emergency. 

The following day she underwent a laparotomy. A part of her bowel had died causing infection and it had to be removed. This has left Mrs D with a large scar on her abdomen as well as a prolonged recovery.

Mrs D was subsequently told that the injury had been caused by a stitch being put through the bowel when the wound was closed. This surgical negligence claim was pursued by Gadsby Wicks Solicitors on the basis that the surgeon had inappropriately incorporated a part of the small bowel into the wound closure.

Settlement

Initially the Defendant denied both breach of duty and causation and proceedings were issued. However, the negligence claim was then settled for £75,000, of which £45,000 was for general damages.

This case was led by Jessica Wright.

NOTE: While our case studies are designed to give an indication of the outcomes that can be achieved in these circumstances, the compensation awarded in individual cases can vary significantly due to a range of factors, including effects on life expectancy, the severity of the negligence that took place, and the financial impact.