Big payout after botched surgery

The family of a woman who died after complications following a botched operation which caused organ failure have been awarded a six-figure payout.
St James' Hospital.St James' Hospital.
St James' Hospital.

Mother-of-three Ann Bennett, from Kippax, underwent surgery to remove her gall bladder at St James’ Hospital in Leeds after examinations revealed she had gall stones.

But during the laparscopic cholecystectomy procedure parts of the 61-year-old’s small bowel were perforated, and she died the same month.

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Now, clinical negligence specialists Michael Jefferies Injury Lawyers have helped her family secure £132,500 in compensation.

Mrs Bennett, who was also the primary carer for her husband John after he suffered a stroke in 2008, underwent the surgery in April, 2012.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust - which runs the hospital admitted negligence.

Michael Jefferies, managing director of the law firm, said: “This is a deeply saddening case that could have been prevented if hospital staff had taken the proper steps. We hope that Ann’s tragic case helps to raise awareness around hospital training and prevent other patients going through a similar ordeal.”

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Mr Bennett has Type 2 diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, and since his wife’s death has employed assistance for help with daily activities.

A spokesman for the NHS trust said: “We would like to express our sincere condolences to the family of Mrs Bennett.  The Trust undertook a very detailed investigation into what happened and significant changes have been introduced as a result of this very sad death.” 

He added that theatre lists are now planned better and training and policies have since been improved.