£15,000 Settlement After Client Suffered Stump Appendicitis Following Appendectomy

Background 

Our client started to experience bloating and pain in his side. When his symptoms became severe, he called NHS 111 and was advised to attend A&E. 

After providing a urine sample which ruled out infection, the client was assessed and informed that appendicitis was suspected. He was referred to the surgical team, who confirmed the diagnosis – a laparoscopic appendectomy was performed the following day. 

During surgery, the appendix was noted to be inflamed and thickened, with localised pus and adhesions. The appendix was removed and sent for histology, which confirmed the presence of a perforated appendix. The client recovered in hospital for four days, completing a course of intravenous antibiotics before being discharged. 

Two months later, the client’s symptoms returned and gradually worsened. He attended his GP, who ordered blood tests and advised simple pain relief; he was told to return if the pain didn’t ease.  

However, two months on from his GP visit, the client’s pain had become severe once again, prompting another visit to A&E. Given his surgical history, clinicians suspected stump appendicitis – a rare complication that occurs when a small portion of the appendix remains after surgery. A CT scan confirmed the diagnosis. 

The client underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy and completion appendectomy, during which surgeons found a 2cm remnant appendix, which was removed. 

Allegations and Expert Evidence 

The client was represented by Clinical Negligence Solicitor, Kerrie-Anne Petford. It was alleged that there had been a breach of duty during the original appendectomy, in that there was a failure to remove a suitable amount of appendix. As a result, the client suffered unnecessary pain, infection, and the need for additional surgery. 

Independent expert evidence from a General Surgeon confirmed that the original procedure had not been carried out to a reasonable standard and that this failure caused avoidable harm. 

Outcome 

A Letter of Claim was served on the Trust and liability was admitted. Following negotiations, a settlement of £15,000 was agreed. 

The compensation recognised the client’s pain, suffering, and prolonged recovery. He intends to put the funds towards a house deposit, giving him a positive step forward following his experience. 

Once the case had settled, the client commented:  

“I do feel justice was secured for what happened. I would also just like to say that Fletchers made everything efficient and very easy on my part and made sure I was informed during every step of my case.” 

Kerrie-Anne added:  

“It has been a pleasure to work on this case, and I am very happy that the well-deserved compensation has been able to assist in saving towards a house deposit.” 

If you’ve suffered surgical negligence, contact our expert medical negligence solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation.