Doctors failed to monitor elderly man leaving him with a permanent disability.

A medical team failed to monitor and promptly treat a 78 year old man following his knee replacement operation. This resulted in him undergoing five further operations and being left with a permanent disability.

Mr Johnson's family were very concerned following his operation. He was very pale, grey and was in severe pain even though he had had an epidural and painkillers.

The family voiced their concerns to the ward staff but it fell on deaf ears. It was four days later before tests were commenced. The tests proved inconclusive as to whether or not he had suffered Compartment Syndrome.

Compartment Syndrome arises when a muscle becomes too big for the sheath that surrounds it causing pain.

The surgeon who examined Mr Johnson did however advise the family that something had gone wrong following the operation. No further tests were carried out nor any surgery.

Mr Johnson's wound developed a necrosis, dead tissues. The family again sought the advice of various members of the medical team all whom confirmed that this was merely superficial.

Finally, 4 weeks later a plastic surgeons opinion was sought. Mr Johnson was transferred to another hospital where the plastic surgery team examined him. Mr Johnson underwent surgery the following day. He had in fact developed compartment syndrome.

Unfortunately by this time the problems were so far advanced that two of the three muscles at the back of Mr Johnson's leg had to be cut away. The survival of the third muscle was also in doubt.

Mr Johnson underwent a further five operations as the new medical team tried to keep further infection at bay. The team told him that he was in danger of developing septicaemia which could prove life threatening or mean a loss of limb. All of which could have been avoided if he had been properly monitored following his initial operation.

Mr Johnson is now beginning to rebuild his life. He wears a brace to help with his mobility and has just purchased an automatic car to regain some of his previous independence.

The Clinical Negligence team investigated Mr Johnson's claim and were delighted to be able to secure him £60,000 in compensation.

If you would like to seek expert legal advice relating to this case study or any other injury claim please complete the online enquiry form or call 0800 915 4650.

If you would like to seek expert legal advice relating to this case study or any other injury claim please complete the online enquiry form or call 0800 915 4650