A middle-aged woman who was referred to hospital by her GP, who suspected she had deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), was given the normal medical tests before she was given the all clear and sent home.
The next day, however, it became obvious that something was seriously wrong – her leg was very swollen and painful. When she returned to hospital, extensive dvt was diagnosed. As a result of the missed diagnosis, she now has to wear a full-length anti-embolism stocking each day and will be taking anticoagulants for the rest of her life. In addition, she is likely to suffer other health problems as well as reduced mobility.
The failure to diagnose dvt was shown to be as the result of the testing not being extensive enough. Had the testing been extensive enough, the dvt would have been spotted and treated, rather than continuing to worsen during the night. The delay in the diagnosis was negligent.
She was awarded £30,000.
The next day, however, it became obvious that something was seriously wrong – her leg was very swollen and painful. When she returned to hospital, extensive dvt was diagnosed. As a result of the missed diagnosis, she now has to wear a full-length anti-embolism stocking each day and will be taking anticoagulants for the rest of her life. In addition, she is likely to suffer other health problems as well as reduced mobility.
The failure to diagnose dvt was shown to be as the result of the testing not being extensive enough. Had the testing been extensive enough, the dvt would have been spotted and treated, rather than continuing to worsen during the night. The delay in the diagnosis was negligent.
She was awarded £30,000.
DVT is often claimed to result from long periods of immobility, particularly where legs are stationary in with knees bent (such as in long flights).
