Delayed Diagnosis of Wrist Fracture Results in £24,000 Compensation

The Incident 

Our client, a 29-year-old man at the time, suffered an injury to his right (dominant) hand during a workplace training exercise. He fell onto his hand, experiencing significant pain that persisted for days. Concerned, he sought medical help at the Urgent Treatment Centre at Buckland Hospital. 

At the hospital, he was assessed by a nurse who did not perform a scaphoid examination—a crucial step in evaluating wrist injuries. Based on the assessment, the nurse diagnosed him with a soft tissue injury and advised him that his wrist was not broken. When our client enquired about needing an x-ray, the nurse reassured him it was unnecessary and suggested that he would recover within six to eight weeks. Additionally, he was instructed to rotate his wrist when sedentary, which he followed diligently. 

Six weeks later, with no improvement in his symptoms, our client returned to the same Urgent Treatment Centre and was assessed by another nurse. Once again, no x-ray was performed, and he was diagnosed with a wrist sprain. 

Frustrated and still in pain, our client visited his GP the same day. The GP provided a referral form for an x-ray and advised him to attend Accident and Emergency immediately. At Victoria Hospital in Deal, he finally underwent a thorough examination, including a scaphoid test, which revealed tenderness. An x-ray confirmed a fracture in his right scaphoid bone. 

By the time our client consulted a specialist—a Consultant Hand Surgeon—nearly three months had passed since the initial injury. The surgeon confirmed that the fracture had not healed and showed non-union of the scaphoid bone. He was promptly scheduled for surgery, and 10 days later, he underwent internal fixation of the bone. 

Follow-up x-rays at one month and four months post-surgery showed good progress, with the fracture healing well. 

Injuries Sustained 

 The delay in diagnosis caused our client prolonged pain and hindered the healing process of his wrist. Even after surgery, he continues to experience functional difficulties, particularly with weight-bearing tasks using his right hand. 

The impact of the injury extended beyond physical discomfort. Recently, as a new father, he struggled to pick up his daughter due to the pain and limited strength in his wrist. Additionally, his career was significantly affected. Previously working in a physical, labour-intensive job, he was forced to transition to an office-based role, which has impacted his professional satisfaction and future opportunities. 

The Case 

 After the prolonged ordeal, our client sought help from Fletchers Solicitors to pursue a medical negligence claim. Solicitors Chris Marsden and Darren Tamplin-Compton took on the case, bringing their extensive experience to advocate for justice. 

 During the legal process, the defendant admitted to breaches of the duty of care owed to our client. It was established that, had the appropriate diagnostic steps been taken during his initial visit, his wrist would have been immobilised. This would have allowed the fracture to heal naturally, avoiding the need for surgical intervention. The negligence directly caused our client unnecessary pain, suffering, and long-term functional challenges. 

The Outcome 

 Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Chris and Darren, the case concluded with a settlement of £24,000. This compensation provides financial security and support to help our client move forward. 

 Reflecting on the resolution of the claim, Chris and Darren remarked: 

 “We are pleased to have settled this case, allowing our client to put this difficult chapter behind him. We hope this enables him to enjoy his growing family and focus on the future.”