A six figure compensation sum has been secured for a woman following the delay in diagnosis of gangrene despite displaying symptoms.
In June 2009, our client attended the Derby Hospital complaining of a lump. Her condition deteriorated in hospital and a blackened area was noted on her skin. Despite this also being noted by a member of staff no action was taken. Our client was then later reviewed by another member of staff who realised that the blackened area was gangrene.
Our client was admitted to theatre as an emergency and underwent extensive surgery to cut away the areas of skin which were affected. Due to the speed at which gangrene develops and spreads through healthy tissue, she had to have a lot of tissue removed.
Following the surgery she was admitted to the Intensive Treatment Unit where her condition remained unstable. She was eventually discharged back to the ward, but had to undergo further major surgery to attempt to cover the holes which had been left by cutting out the affected skin and tissue. The wounds remained open for more than a year.
Expert evidence ascertained that due to the delay in acting, a further 25% of tissue had to be removed, and the wound healing was delayed by approximately two years.
The defendant admitted they had been negligent in failing to act sooner when the blackened area was noticed. They made a full apology to the client and the case settled for £155,000.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a delayed or misdiagnosed medical condition, our clinical negligence solicitors could help you claim compensation. See our Medical Misdiagnosis Claims page for more information.
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