Cardiac problems
Clinical negligence claims for cardiac problems are often based on misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosing the true condition. Claims may arise as a result of a failure to perform an electrocardiogram (ECG); misinterpretation of test results; and delay in recognising and treating surgical complications following angiogram and angioplasty. Unfortunately, failing to give the correct treatment at the right time can result in severe injuries or death.
Here are some examples of our current cardiac problem claims:
Failure to diagnose a heart attack
Hay & Kilner are investigating a claim on behalf of the Estate of our client’s late wife. Our client’s late wife attended Accident and Emergency with severe chest pain. An ECG was performed and was strongly suggestive of heart attack. However, it is alleged that the Defendant hospital negligently treated our client’s late wife’s chest pain as musculoskeletal. After a delay of 4 hours, a diagnosis of heart attack was made and she was urgently transferred to a Regional Cardiac Unit. She underwent an emergency angioplasty procedure but sadly, she continued to deteriorate and was later pronounced dead.
It is our client’s case that the Defendant hospital inappropriately diagnosed musculoskeletal pain and, as such, failed to implement the local protocol for an acute heart attack. Had our client’s late wife received timely treatment, on balance, she would have survived and gone on to live a normal life.
Breach of duty during the insertion of a pacemaker device
Hay & Kilner are currently investigating a claim in which it is alleged that there was a breach of duty during the insertion of a pacemaker device, resulting in the displacement of one of the leads, causing perforation of our client’s myocardium. Our client was re-admitted to hospital two days after discharge at which time the lead was removed and replaced. She was, however, readmitted to hospital on a number of other occasions with complications arising out of the displaced lead.
For further information, please contact Clare Thompson on 0192 232 8345 or emailclare.thompson@hay-kilner.co.uk
Hay & Kilner has an ‘excellent grasp of clinical negligence law and an excellent manner with clients’, and recently settled several high-value claims including a sub-standard knee surgery case and a meningitis case. It also secured a £70,000 award in a dental claim. Clients rate Clare Thompson, Helen Morland and the ‘hugely experienced’ David Bradshaw. The firm has a multi-party action franchise.
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Hay & Kilner's ‘efficient, knowledgeable and conscientious' clinical negligence practice settled a substantial number of cerebral palsy claims with a combined value of £20m over the course of 2009, and was retained on the Spinal Injury Panel. ‘Experienced' partner David Bradshaw and the ‘methodical, bright' Clare Thompson are both recommended.
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