Our expert medical negligence lawyers secured a settlement of £200,000 for a man who was rendered practically housebound after a botched operation left him with one leg longer than the other.
In 2011 our client underwent a total hip replacement – however this operation was done badly, leaving the affected leg more than two centimetres longer than the other. This caused him considerable pain and gave him great trouble moving around. He was unable to climb the stairs in his own home – meaning he could not sleep in his bedroom or use his bath or shower.
In the year following the faulty operation he was reduced to washing himself with a flannel at the sink in the downstairs toilet. A bed was put downstairs so that at least he could sleep comfortably – but the extreme pain caused by his post-operative hip meant he could not even bear to lie down flat. For a long period of time he was forced to sleep sitting upright on his sofa.
Our client’s independence was drastically reduced. He was rarely able to leave the house – which, added to the fact he could no longer access the upper floor of his home, meant he was confined almost exclusively to the ground floor.
Because of the operation our client required a significant amount of care – this was provided both by a carer and the client’s brother. Even with this support, he was unable to enjoy his old hobbies, such as gardening – activities which previously had got him out and about and kept him active, but which now were impossible.
When we took on his claim, we worked to show the full impact of this negligent operation on his life, both now and in the future. The hospital trust admitted responsibility for his poor treatment and we secured the six-figure settlement which accounted for the considerable alterations he has had to make in his life, as well as his ongoing pain and suffering.
Our client was able to use his compensation to move to a new property with more space, better suited to his needs. He’s also been able to make adaptations, including a stairlift, ramps and handles. For getting about outdoors, he’s purchased a mobility scooter and has also benefited from a variety of therapies.
Our client said of the case: “I’m very pleased with the settlement. Not only that, I’m really pleased with the service I received from Irwin Mitchell throughout my claim, from start to finish.”
He was represented by Laura Ralfe, a lawyer specialising in orthopaedic cases such as this. She said of the case: “We’re very pleased to have secured this settlement for our client, which will enable him to lead an independent life again. While it’s not possible to undo the negligent operation he suffered, this compensation provides him with the support he needs, such as property adaptations and mobility aids.”
If you’ve suffered a negligent operation, whether hip replacement or otherwise, contact our medical team today to find out about making a claim.
You can also read more about Great Adaptations, our download showing how property adaptations can make a difference to those needing to change their lifestyle following serious injury or negligent medical treatment.
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