RW v Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
The Claimant was allergic to penicillin and underwent a right cataract surgery in 2019, post-operatively no antibiotics were instilled into the Claimant’s right eye, and they were discharged the same day.
Post-operatively the Claimant was unable to open their right eye and became sensitive to light. The Claimant returned to hospital the following day and their visual acuity was noted to be poor and they could only perceive light in the right eye. Steroid drops and antibiotics were prescribed.
There was no improvement in the Claimant’s vision, and they were subsequently diagnosed with an infection (Endophthalmitis). The Claimant was returned to theatre and further antibiotics were administered. The Claimant’s vision did not improve and became blind in their right eye.
The Defendant admitted there was a failure to discuss the cataract surgery and the associated risks with the Claimant given the known allergy to penicillin, a failure to discuss the enhanced risks of endophthalmitis in giving no intracameral antibiotic. It is accepted that no alternative options were discussed with the Claimant to minimise the risk of serious complications of cataract surgery in a penicillin allergic patient and that there was a failure to act in line with standard practice by not giving intra-cameral vancomycin during surgery.
The Claimant’s case settled for a global sum of £150,000.00 and included losses for past care and assistance, aids and equipment, medical treatment, travel expenses and additional heating and electricity. The Claimant at the time of the alleged negligence had retired and was unable to enjoy his retirement as planned. Their future losses included private medical care, occupational therapy costs, home adaptions, aids and equipment, domestic support, gardening, DIY and decorating, podiatry, and a travel allowance.