Abbie’s medical negligence case settled for close to €300,000

3 minute read

Abbie visited Hospital complaining of abdominal pain and other symptoms, consistent with appendicitis. The young woman had a medical history of ulcerative colitis, a long-term condition where the colon can become inflamed.

Abbie was advised that her symptoms related to her existing ulcerative colitis and was discharged from Hospital. Her condition worsened and she returned to Hospital and again, the impression was of an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, with a possible obstruction. She was admitted and the following day, a complex perforated appendicitis was queried by a treating doctor, but despite this working diagnosis, this remained unconfirmed for another day.

Due to the delay in diagnosing appendicitis, Abbie suffered a perforated appendix requiring numerous surgeries. She spent over a month in Hospital following these procedures.  She had a very difficult post-operative course. 

Abbie was impacted in various ways. She was very physically unwell for a considerable time and even now, suffers weakness in her abdominal wall with accompanying pain on occasion. She has very significant scarring of the abdomen due to numerous surgical procedures and she has a recognised psychiatric disorder. She will likely have fertility issues in the future. 

Abbie initiated a clinical negligence claim

Abbie contacted us as a result of word of mouth recommendation given to her sister. Joice Carthy was instructed with the case.

At the outset, it was clear that it was necessary to investigate the care afforded to Abbie, given what appeared to be a significant delay in correctly diagnosing and treating her symptoms. We instructed several medical expert consultants who compiled a series of reports that we would use to strengthen Abbie’s case.

These reports dealt with the injuries caused by the negligence and Abbie’s ongoing symptoms and in that respect, a report was also sought from her GP.  All relevant medical records were taken up, including records from Abbie’s doctors during a period when she lived abroad.

We issued proceedings but the the Hospital initially denied liability. A a result, a trial date was set.

Just one week before the trial was due to commence, the Hospital showed a willingness to negotiate settlement. They accepted a breach of duty and the matter settled in the sum of almost €300,000.

The settlement came as a relief to Abbie, who told her solicitor that she felt like a weight had been lifted and that she could now get on with her life and put these very traumatic events behind her.   

“Joice Carthy was always helpful, contactable and willing to go through any queries I had. Joice was also proactive and constantly thinking of potential next steps. She really helped me through the whole process and I hold her and ACL in high regards.” – Abbie on Trustpilot

Our medical negligence department might be able to help you too

If you suffered due to misdiagnosis or a delay in diagnosis, you could be entitled to compensation. You can learn more about our expert services at Medical Negligence Claims or Contact Us to speak with an expert.

In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

The name referenced throughout this case study is a pseudonym that has been put in place to protect the client’s privacy.

---

Share