THE TYPE OF CASE WE DO

POST OPERATIVE DVT, DEATH

M V WEST SUFFOLK HOSPITAL NHS TRUST (2001)

£42,836 following delay in diagnosis of post operative deep vein thrombosis and death of husband.

Aged 54 M underwent surgery under general anaesthetic.

M developed a deep vein thrombosis in his left ilio-femoral vein.

M's condition deteriorated and he suffered and died from a cardio-respiratory arrest caused by the DVT two weeks after the operation.

BREACH OF DUTY

It was argued that there was a negligent delay in identifying the DVT.

CAUSATION

It was argued that earlier diagnosis of the DVT would have resulted in treatment that would have saved M's life.

OUTCOME

The hospital accepted liability for M's death. Compensation was assessed by the Court at £42,836.