THE TYPE OF CASE WE DO

£20,000 following damage to aorta and vena cava by trocar (the device used to pierce the abdominal cavity and through which gas and instruments enter the body) during attempted laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

E v Birmingham Heartlands & Solihull Hospital NHS Trust (2002)

Aged 76 E was admitted for removal of gall stones by laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

During the procedure the trocar slipped damaging the aorta and vena cava.

E required surgery to repair the blood vessels and a second operation to remove his gallstones, the first attempt having been abandoned.

E recovered from his injuries with a good prognosis.

BREACH OF DUTY

It was E's case that the laparoscopic procedure was performed unacceptably in that a number of mistakes were made leading to the damage of the blood vessels by the trocar. 

OUTCOME

The case was settled without admission of liability or the need to issue Court proceedings in the sum of £20,000.