The GP’s failure in diagnosing Bradley’s SUFE, prevented him from being a candidate for simple corrective surgery to stabilise his hip and instead required him to have complex surgery causing him to have a shortened and painful leg with lifelong complications.
The Negligence
In 2013 Bradley suffered a slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) after rugby training. He developed symptoms relating to his left hip and he was taken to see his GP the next day. His GP advised that Bradley had a trapped nerve and encouraged him to mobilise on his leg.
At this GP appointment Bradley should have been referred to the hospital for an assessment of his leg and hip. If Bradley was referred to the hospital, he would have been diagnosed with a stable SUFE and treated with a surgical procedure known as a ‘pinning in situ’.
Additional surgeries due to missed SUFE
However, Bradley was not referred to the Hospital and over the course of days following the GP appointment Bradley developed a severe unstable SUFE. He was admitted to hospital two days after this GP appointment.
Due to the negligence Bradley required more extensive surgery, rather than the simple pinning procedure which he would have otherwise needed if he had been referred to hospital by the GP. By the time of his attendance at hospital, Bradley had developed avascular necrosis of the hip, which has meant that he required a variety of surgeries throughout his childhood and has had a severe impact on his lower limb function. Bradley has also been left with a shortened leg and he is able to walk about 2 miles maximum. Bradley will always need to walk using a crutch.
Expert evidence
We obtained expert evidence on what would have happened if Bradley was referred to hospital for an assessment. We were advised that a reasonable GP would have considered the possibility of SUFE and referred Bradley to hospital urgently. Upon referral Bradley’s SUFE would have been stable, and he would have undergone pin in situ surgery. If Bradley had this surgery, he would have only been on crutches for 6 – 8 weeks and off sports for 4 – 6 months, but essentially would have made a full recovery.
Life changing settlement
We were able to negotiate a significant financial settlement for Bradley, providing him with the financial security which he will require in order to manage the ongoing effects of the negligent treatment taking into account the future surgery Bradley may need in relation to his injury, any future care, assistance, equipment and adapted accommodation.
Sadly, although what appeared to be clear failings, the claim was defended by the GP and their insurers and so this was a lengthy journey for Bradley who has expressed to us his appreciation for the support that CL Medilaw has provided him with throughout the course of his case:
“I would like to thank you again for everything you have done. I am very grateful for the support over the many years it has been.”
Bradley
If you have experienced complications or long last affects as a result of incorrect or delayed surgery, get in touch with our team of lawyers to find out how we can help. Either fill out our contact form here, or give us a ring on, 0345 241 0154.
