Life-Threatening Delayed Diagnosis Of A Hernia

Our client approached Novum Law after she was severely let down by a delay in diagnosis of a hernia, to the point where the hernia became strangulated.

What Is Hernia Strangulation?

Hernia strangulation occurs when fatty tissue or a section of the small intestines pushes through a weakened area of the abdominal muscle. The surrounding muscle then clamps down around the tissue, cutting off the blood supply to the small intestine.  It is a life-threatening medical emergency that, in our client’s case, could have been avoided.

Complications Following A Delayed Diagnosis Of Epigastric Hernia

Whilst at hospital, she had a CT scan which should have identified the hernia but unfortunately this did not happen. Despite continuing signs and symptoms of an epigastric hernia, there was a failure to diagnose it until the point at which it became strangulated.

As a result of the strangulation, an urgent laparotomy and small bowel resection was required rather than a straight forward elective laparoscopic hernia repair.

Instead of a full recovery within around two months, our client’s recovery has been long and drawn out as a result of the development of short bowel syndrome (with related dietary, nutritional and faecal urgency and incontinence issues) and bile salt malabsorption.  Unfortunately for our client, these symptoms are permanent.

Our client is no longer able to work and there are additional care and accommodation requirements as a direct result of her experience.  In short, the effects of the delay in diagnosing the hernia have been life-changing.

Novum Law Secure Financial Compensation During Ongoing Medical Negligence Claim

This claim is ongoing and Novum Law has already secured an interim payment of damages to provide financial support to our client.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, delayed treatment, treatment errors or another type of medical negligence, then please get in touch – call Novum Law on Freephone 0800 884 0777, email: info@novumlaw.com or complete the enquiry form on this page.