'Paul', 48

JMW helped Paul secure a £135,000 settlement following a perforated bowel during an endoscopy examination.

Treatment and surgeries

Paul suffered from haemorrhoids and constipation and was given creams to help but these were unsuccessful. Following this Paul decided to go to a private hospital where he received Botox injections, then later removal and banding of the haemorrhoids when the Botox failed.

After the haemorrhoid removal Paul was in significant pain and was referred to a Doctor for examination. They found a fissure and suggested trying Botox again. During this surgery Paul was advised that an internal check, by inserting an endoscopic surgical camera, would be performed, however he was not informed of any risks.

Once out of surgery, hospital staff advised Paul that they had found a small red mark on his bowel and would keep him in overnight with antibiotics.

However, a few hours later, Paul experienced excruciating stomach pain and was taken to A&E. He was scanned and it was later found that the camera used in the previous surgery had perforated his bowel.

Prolonged hospital stay

He underwent repair surgery (laparotomy) and was fitted with a stoma. Paul had a prolonged stay in hospital where he contracted pneumonia, suffered gout in his foot and knee, and had hallucinations and suffered from a period of vomiting.

A few months later, Paul had the stoma surgery reversed, but since then he has been in pain. As a result, he cannot wear belts, he cannot bend easily, and he struggles to get in and out of his car. His mental health has also understandably suffered and he has been left with significant abdominal scarring.

JMW’s investigation

Paul got in touch with JMW’s clinical negligence team, where he spoke with associate, Claire Boardman, he explained that had he been told of the risks associated with the endoscopy he would not have agreed for it to be done.

Claire was able to put together a strong case and the hospital admitted that all of the injuries were avoidable and on the balance of probabilities as a result of the breach, Paul required major surgery, a prolonged hospital stay and abdominal scarring as well as multiple outpatient follow up appointments.

Claire was able to secure £135,000 which will go towards helping Paul with ongoing treatment including counselling, as well as loss of earnings resulting from the surgery needed due to the substandard medical care.