Our client needed to have old screws removed from his knee a few years after these were inserted following a sporting injury which required surgery. The old screws were causing symptoms as they were rubbing, and it had always been anticipated that they might need to be removed at some point after the sporting injury had healed.
The same orthopaedic surgeon who had inserted the old screws organised the new operation to remove the screws. However, in the time between insertion of the old screws and the operation to remove them, the NHS changed medical equipment providers and as a result a warning was sent around to the NHS Hospitals that for removal of old screws, the old screwdrivers needed to be specifically requested for operations, as the new provider used different screwdrivers which would not fit on the old screws.
The orthopaedic surgeon, although aware, failed to request the old screwdrivers for the second operation, and only realised his mistake after our client had been put under anaesthetic and after his knee had already been cut open. Our client’s knee was stitched up again and he was discharged home. He required a third operation, at which point the old screws were successfully removed and he made a good recovery. His claim was successful, and we helped him win £10,237 in compensation.
How can we help you?
Please contact us for advice if you feel you have suffered any form of negligent medical/dental treatment. We have a specialist team of medical negligence solicitors who are always happy to help.
If you would like advice on whether you have a potential clinical negligence claim or assistance with drafting a letter of complaint, please contact us on the number below. Please note that there are legal time limits in place for starting a claim for compensation, and our specialist clinical negligence solicitors will be able to advise you specifically on the facts of your own case.
