Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust | Case Study

If you have been injured as a result of medical negligence at the Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, you may be entitled to financial compensation. To speak to an expert about your situation, call Quittance on 0800 612 7456.

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Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust (2005) - Case Study

A 57-year-old man accepted damages of £60,000 in an out-of-court settlement after doctors failed to diagnose a serious spinal condition known as cauda equina syndrome.

The claimant, who was 54 when the injury occurred, was assessed for back pain at a hospital within the Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust. Doctors advised that he did not require treatment and sent him home with a course of painkillers and the recommendation to get plenty of rest.

A few days later, the claimant went to see his GP complaining of severe back pain. He also had restricted movement and was having trouble urinating.

A consultant neurosurgeon diagnosed a central disc prolapse and cauda equina syndrome, a serious condition that relates to nerves in the base of the spine. Cauda equina syndrome must be treated within 48 hours, otherwise it can result in various levels of disability.

The claimant immediately underwent an operation to decompress the nerves but the damage had already been done. The cauda equina syndrome affected all aspects of his life from incontinence to loss of sexual function. He could not stand or sit in one position for long periods and his balance was affected, so he would occasionally fall over.

Despite attending physiotherapy and taking selenium, the claimant's nerves did not regenerate. In a report prepared for the claim, an independent specialist confirmed that the injuries would be permanent.

Compensation settlement

Compensation totalling £60,000 (£81,352.76 RPI adjusted) was agreed in an out-of-court settlement. Damages of £30,000 (£40,676.38 RPI) were attributed to pain, suffering and loss of amenity.

Making a compensation claim against Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust Foundation Trust

Making a claim for medical negligence can be considerably more complex than other types of personal injury claim, and expert legal advice is strongly recommended.