Family Instructs Medical Negligence Lawyers At Irwin Mitchell To Investigate

An inquest to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a 79-year-old following a routine hernia repair surgery at The Yorkshire Clinic in Bingley is scheduled to begin on Wednesday 24^th June at 10am.

James Hartley, from Addingham near Ilkley was admitted to The Yorkshire Clinic following a referral from his GP for elective hernia repair surgery on 25^th September last year.

Whilst the 79-year-old’s surgery seemed to go well, he suffered from post-operative urine retention. Clinical staff at The Yorkshire Clinic encouraged him to drink fluids for approximately 14 hours without passing water and in this time they did not monitor his fluid balance and did not intervene to insert a catheter.

Approximately 24 hours after surgery he suffered a series of seizures and was transferred to Bradford Royal Infirmary where doctors fought for six days to save his life.

He died on 1 October 2014 from multi-organ failure due to brain injury from water intoxication and sepsis from pneumonia. Water intoxication (hyponatraemia) is a low concentration of sodium in the blood which can be caused by excessive intake of water.

The two-day inquest will take place at Bradford Coroner’s Court in front of HM Coroner’s Assistant Mr Longstaff. James’ family including his wife Angela Hartley will be attending along with specialist medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell.

Expert Opinion

“Angela and her family have been left completely devastated by James’ unexpected death and they are seeking clarity from The Yorkshire Clinic about exactly what happened on the 25th and 26th September 2014.

“They hope that the inquest will provide an opportunity for them to learn more about the events leading up to James’ death so they can begin the long process of rebuilding their lives, and ensure that measures are put in place at the Yorkshire Clinic to avoid a repeat of this tragic event.”
Ross McWilliams - Partner

If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of hospital negligence, we may be able to help you claim compensation. See our Medical Negligence Guide for more information.