Compensation for a Retained Foreign Object in Abdominal Surgery
Abdominal surgery is very common and usually highly-successful. However, such is the complexity of the abdominal anatomy that when a mistake is made, the effects can be devastating.
A retained foreign object
A retained foreign object is an item which is unintentionally left inside a patient after their surgical procedure is completed. It is one of the NHS's 'Never Events', occurrences during a medical procedure which should never happen.
Nonetheless, it does occasionally happen and during the period 2019 to 2020 around 90 procedures were reported during which an item was left inside the patient during their surgery. These items are most commonly swabs or guidewires which have accidentally been left in place, but also include other pieces of surgical equipment or devices.
Other forms of 'Never Event' include operating or carrying out a medical procedure on the wrong site on a person's body, incorrect administration of medication and errors in surgery for implants or prosthesis.
The impact of a retained object
Depending on the size, nature and location of the 'retained object' the impact on the patient can be dramatic.
Several major, life-supporting organs are located in the abdomen and a retained object may threaten their integrity and function.
Whatever the degree of damage, the patient is likely, at the very least, to need additional surgery to remove the object. In the meantime, they may suffer considerable pain or discomfort. In the case of a recent client, a retained object following abdominal surgery led to significant bowel damage and the need for a stoma.
Such an appalling outcome can affect an individual's life significantly, even impacting on their ability to work, thereby affecting their financial situation.
Medical negligence
When a 'Never Event' occurs, the relevant medical professional is likely to be regarded as having acted negligently.
If the long-term impact of the negligence proves to cause considerable distress and disability to the patient, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the significant impact of a medical 'Never Event, contact Glynns Solicitors.
We are a specialist medical negligence legal practice and one of our team of experienced solicitors will be very happy to discuss your situation with you and assess the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
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