This case study demonstrates the expertise of our Clinical Negligence team who recently acted for a girl in her late teens who suffered serious hypoxic brain injury as a result of cardiac arrest.
The claimant was in her late teens when she suffered a series of seizures. She was under the care of Luton & Dunstable Hospital who misdiagnosed epilepsy. In fact, she had a cardiac condition known as Long QT Syndrome, which was relatively easy to treat.
However, as a result of the failure to treat her condition, she suffered cardiac arrest in April 2003, at the age of 22. The cardiac arrest led to serious hypoxic brain damage.
At the time of her cardiac arrest, the claimant was in a stable relationship and had two young children. As a result of the negligence she is brain damaged and will require care and assistance for life. She has significant problems with speech, mobility, cognition and mood. She can stand independently but only walk a few steps. She is unable to look after her children, who at the time of the settlement had overtaken their mother in terms of maturity and independence.
Fiona Mills was instructed by the claimant's mother who acted as her litigation friend due to her lack of capacity. Evidence was obtained from experts in cardiology and neurology and liability was admitted by Luton & Dunstable Hospitals NHS Trust.
Evidence was obtained various experts including care, neuropsychology and accommodation in order to value the case and ensure that the claim included all relevant heads of damage. The claimant required a team of carers to look after her for life.
Settlement was proposed at 1.4 million lump sum together with periodical payments of £102,500 each year for the rest of her life. Settlement was approved by the court.
Fiona Mills specialises in cases involving brain injury. If you would like to ask Fiona a question about a potential case involving brain injury or you have a general query about medical negligence contact Fiona on 01892 701286 in confidence.
We have one of the largest and most experienced specialist medical negligence teams in Southern England including London. Our team of highly experienced lawyers has the depth and range of expertise essential in this sensitive and often complex area of law. Our clinical negligence team is very proud to be ranked Number 1 in both the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners UK.
