Vulval injury suffered during orthopaedic surgery

Jenny Hawkes, specialist clinical negligence lawyer acting for the claimant, successfully obtained a settlement of £150,000 to compensate the claimant for pain and suffering.

The claimant had a history of a genetic overgrowth disorder, chronic fatigue and hypermobility.

The claimant underwent a right femur osteotomy (leg lengthening surgery) at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH).  During the course of the orthopaedic operation, the claimant sustained a soft tissue injury to her labia and vulva.  The severity of the injury suggested a prolonged period of excessive pressure was applied to the perineum by the perineal post used during surgery to secure the patient’s position.

The claimant suffered necrosis of the vulva and labia which was extremely distressing.  She was incorrectly told by the hospital that this was thrush and discharged.

The claimant struggled to get help but eventually saw gynaecologists at the Royal Free Hospital and underwent surgical debridement.

The claimant suffered psychiatric injury and chronic pain as a result of her injuries.  She was unable to return to university.  The physical injuries were permanent and would not be improved by cosmetic/plastic surgery.

A claim was investigated and expert evidence obtained. The defendant denied liability and court proceedings were issued.

The claim settled for damages of £150,000 without the need to go to trial.  Damages included money for psychiatric treatment and a pain management programme.

Jenny Hawkes specialises in clinical negligence cases.  If you would like to ask Jenny a question about a potential case, or if you have a general query about any personal injury, contact her at Thomson Snell & Passmore solicitors on 01892 701374 in confidence. We offer no win no fee agreements on the vast majority of our clinical negligence and personal injury cases.