Settlement of over £250,000 obtained for lady who was left paraplegic after surgery

Julie Crossley, a clinical negligence specialist at Ashtons Legal, has obtained a substantial settlement for an elderly Norfolk lady whose mishandled surgery has left her paraplegic.

Mrs E was in her late 70s when she was admitted to hospital for hip replacement surgery. She was given an epidural anaesthetic before undergoing the operation even though this is not recommended for someone who requires anti-coagulation drugs having previously suffered a stroke. Moreover it took three attempts before the epidural was administered successfully.

After the operation Mrs E developed a spinal haematoma which, although removed, left her with permanent damage to her spinal cord and she has effectively lost the use of her lower limbs, is wheelchair bound and requires considerable care.

In spite of her age, Mrs E had previously been active, enjoying activities such as gardening, line dancing and playing with her grandchildren.

Her settlement will enable her to move to a wheelchair-friendly property and obtain the help she will need with her everyday care for the rest of her life.