Case Study: CSF Leak Following Rhinoplasty
Compensation: £32.500
Charles, 32 years old, Nuneaton
With JMW's assistance, a man has successfully acquired £32,500 in compensation after negligence during surgery caused numerous, avoidable complications.
Charles had a history of a significant nasal deformity since he was hit in the face during a rugby match. He was referred to Hospital by his GP. He was described as having a prominent nasal lump and flat nose below that. Charles was listed for removal of the nasal lump (rhinoplasty) and a cartilage graft from his chest.
Negligence during surgery
During the course of the rhinoplasty the osteotome (an instrument used for cutting or preparing bone) used by the Plastic Surgeon slipped and pushed through the floor of the anterior cranial fossa (in other words fractured his skull). As a result Charles developed CSF rhinorrhoea (drainage of cerebrospinal fluid through the nose). He was referred to a neurosurgeon and underwent a craniotomy and repair of the dura defect.
The operation was a success however there was still a numb patch next to the scar which was unavoidable due to the damage of sensory nerves in the area.
Heavy-handed approach and it's consequences
An independent medical expert felt that penetration of an instrument into the anterior skull base floor was an unacceptable complication reflecting a heavy-handed approach on the part of the operator.
Charles has been left with a permanent craniotomy scar. This will become increasingly conspicuous as Charles loses his hair.
Charles also experienced 3 weeks impairment of smell and taste following the procedure, and headaches for 2 to 3 months. He continues to experience intermittent headaches when he sneezes.
Long-term risks
In the long term, Charles has a 1% annual risk of developing epilepsy, a 1% per annum risk of a further CSF leak, and a 1% risk of developing meningitis. These risks will return to baseline levels after a period of 10 years.
Settlement
The case was settled and JMW Solicitors obtained £32,500 compensation for Charles.
Have you suffered in a similar way to Charles?
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