£350K secured following incorrect treatment of a vascular condition

At Fletchers Solicitors, we are proud to represent individuals whose lives have been drastically altered by avoidable medical mistakes. Our client’s case is an example of how delays in diagnosis and inadequate care can lead to devastating, lifelong consequences. Through tireless investigation and determination, we were able to achieve justice for her, securing £350,000 in compensation to help her rebuild her life.

The Incident

Our client had a complicated medical history, including a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in her left leg, which meant that she required careful monitoring and specialist care. She was under the ongoing care of her local hospital for thrombotic problems when she began to complain of a painful right foot, a symptom that should have raised immediate concerns given her medical background.

Unfortunately, her pain was not properly investigated or acted upon. This failure to recognise the severity of her condition and provide timely treatment resulted in catastrophic consequences. Her condition deteriorated to the point where her right leg could not be saved, and she was forced to undergo a below-knee amputation.

Life After the Amputation

The amputation marked the beginning of a long and difficult journey for our client. She was referred to a prosthetic clinic, where she was fitted with an artificial limb, but the prosthetic proved to be unsatisfactory. Instead of restoring some mobility, it caused her further discomfort and pain, leaving her struggling to walk any significant distance.

In addition to the physical challenges of her amputation, she also suffered from severe phantom limb pain, an often-overlooked but extremely debilitating condition that added to her daily discomfort. She faced difficulties in her ability to work, stand for long periods, or manage stairs. Even simple tasks like dressing, preparing meals, or moving around her home required help. Her independence was significantly reduced, and she relied on others for care and support.

Her already challenging life was made even harder when she later suffered a stroke, further limiting her mobility and independence.

Fighting for Accountability

When our client approached us, she was already close to the three-year limitation deadline for making a medical negligence claim. Despite the time constraints, we acted swiftly to secure an extension of time, allowing us to carry out the detailed investigations required to build a strong case.

Our expert medical negligence solicitors worked wth independent medical experts to carefully reviewed her medical history and treatment records. Their findings revealed a clear failure by the hospital to adequately treat her vascular problems at an early stage. If they had acted appropriately, her condition would not have progressed to the point of requiring an amputation.

Despite the strength of our evidence, the hospital vigorously defended the claim, forcing us to prepare meticulously for trial. We worked closely with our client to ensure her story was heard and her suffering fully recognised.

£350,000 to Support a Better Future

Just before the case was due to go to trial, we secured a £350,000 settlement for our client. This compensation was life-changing. While no amount of money can ever restore what she lost, it provided her with the financial security she needed to manage her injuries, improve her quality of life, and plan for the future.

The settlement allowed her to invest in better care and support, including specialist equipment and services to make her home more accessible. It also gave her peace of mind, knowing that she would have the resources to cover ongoing medical needs, pain management treatments, and mobility aids. For someone who had endured such hardship, this was not just a financial outcome, it was a recognition of her suffering and a sense of justice for what she had endured.

How Fletchers Solicitors Can Help

We specialise in complex medical negligence claims, including cases involving delayed diagnosis, amputations, and life-changing injuries. Our expertise ensures clients like her receive the recognition and support they deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered life-altering injuries due to negligent care, our compassionate and experienced legal team is here to fight for you, just as we did for our client.

Speak to our experts today!

As well as cases like the above, Fletchers are currently investigating negligent vascular surgery at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board hospitals. If you or a loved one has been affected, we may be able to help. You can find out more about our group action and the support available here.