A man has been left paralysed after an epidural he did not want led to complications.
Stephen Onley, a 56 year old former social worker, underwent a hip operation in 2010.
He had explicitly stated he did not want an epidural because of the risks of spinal injury. However, medical practitioners said it was required and performed it while he was under general anaesthetic.
Sadly he was not closely monitored after the surgery and his blood pressure fell to a dangerously low level. This caused the spinal cord to become deficient in blood and oxygen, resulting in permanent nerve damage.
The problem was not recognised for two days, after which a scan confirmed that he was paralysed from the waist downwards and would never be able to walk again.
The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust admitted liability and Mr Onley was awarded £2million compensation.
He said: “No money can replace the loss of your legs, loss of your work, loss of your relationship you had with your partner, loss of ability to be with your children and grandson. What it can do is make life easier after the event.”
Medical negligence solicitors
If you would like to know more about suing the NHS for negligent medical care, please get in touch with us today. We specialise in medical negligence claims.
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