Loss of leg after failed to diagnose DVT
Introduction
Mr VX had been on a long haul flight. When he got home, he began to develop severe leg pain and struggled to use his leg. He called an ambulance and was taken by paramedics to the A&E Department at Leicester Royal Infirmary.
Mr VX was initially diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis caused by a clot in the hip and was given fragmin injections. He was advised to for self administer the injections and was sent home despite the extreme level of pain he was in.
His condition deteriorated. His leg became cold and there was a loss of colour in his leg and discolouration of his toes. His movement was severely restricted. He was unable to climb stairs.
Mr VX consulted his GP and he was sent back to hospital by ambulance. Tests confirmed that there was no blood flow in the lower left leg. He was told that surgery would be required to save the leg however during the procedure the leg was initially amputated below the knee.
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Mr. VX instructed the specialist law firm MDS to represent him in his amputation case.
Our Amputation experts proved that there had been negligence and expertly quantified his case for a 7-figure sum.
What Happened?
The symptoms got worse and after further tests, once it was confirmed that there was no blood flow in the remaining area below the knee and a "Through knee" amputation was carried out.
Mr VX stayed in hospital for around 6 weeks in total.
During this time alternative accommodation had to be found as his current accommodation was unsuitable for his needs.
Mr VX , previously a very fit, proud man leading an active lifestyle was fitted with a prosthetic leg. The injury affected his ability to work, his personal life, his ability to carry out day to day activities, exercise and sport and travel in the same was that he was previously able to and his mental health also suffered. Life as he knew it changed completely. Significant adjustments in his life were required at so many levels.
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How can MDS help you?
While no amount of compensation will ever be enough if you or a family member loses a limb, MDS can help you to ensure you recover what you are entitled to.
If you or a family member has or a loved one has been affected by healthcare negligence, we can help you through the legal process for investigating your concerns against a healthcare professional and your negligence claim if there is one.
We will do this by providing legal representation on a no-win-no-fee basis to investigate what happened, help you get some answers, help you secure compensation, help seek justice for you and help to secure your or your loved one’s future.
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The Legal Claim
A detailed letter was sent to the Defendant NHS Trust setting out the allegations and seeking an admission of liability. Medical evidence was obtained from a number of experts including a Vascular Surgeon, Orthopaedic expert, Rehabilitation expert, Occupational Therapist/Care Expert, Accommodation expert, pain management expert, Psychiatrist and Prosthetist.
Liability was eventually admitted, and an initial offer was made by the defendant.
The offer was not accepted and after extensive investigations into the value of the claim and extensive evidence to support the claim the claim was settled at a settlement meeting.
Extensive further treatment and therapy was recommended including limb fitting, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological treatment and case management. Potential costs were provided for the same. Details were also provided for appliances, mobility aids, relevant equipment and amendments to his home and vehicle.
Short, medium and long term rehabilitation, activities and treatment were recommended to facilitate recovery.
A Joint Settlement meeting took place almost 4 years after the initial offer and the admission of liability.
The valuation of the claim was complex given the injury and needs. A 7-figure settlement was reached on behalf of Mr VX.
Disclaimer
Whilst our case studies are designed to give an indication of the outcomes that can be achieved in these circumstances, the compensation awarded in individual cases can vary significantly due to a range of factors, including the severity of injury, effects on life expectancy and financial impact, for example. For more information, contact us today.
Our Approach
We will support you, guide you and be your voice throughout.
If you are concerned about the medical treatment that you or a loved one has received, please contact us and one of our specialist team will assist you.
