Geldards Secure £30k Settlement In Pulmonary Embolism Case

Amy-Beth Probert in Geldards’ Medical Negligence team recently concluded a medical negligence claim on behalf of a client who had suffered a pulmonary embolism as a result of an undiagnosed DVT which developed following surgery for an ankle fracture.

Despite the client being at ‘high risk’ of developing a DVT, the treating hospital failed to provide adequate treatment to prevent the DVT occurring.

Approximately two weeks after surgery, the client attended A&E with chest pain and shortness of breath. Investigations revealed lung collapse and thrombus in the right lung. The client required transfer to the High Dependency Unit and was placed on a ventilator for 3 days. He will now require blood thinning medication for the rest of his life.

University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust admitted breach of duty in failing to perform and document a VTE (Venous Thromboembolism) risk assessment and failing to comply with departmental guidelines in relation to VTE prophylaxis.

Geldards obtained expert medical evidence from a Vascular Surgeon, Chest Physician and Psychiatrist in support of the claim. The case finally settled in the sum of £30,000 plus costs.

If you have any questions about the above case study or would like to speak with a clinical negligence specialist solicitor, please contact Linda Williams on 02920 391773 and Linda.Williams@geldards.com