Can I sue the NHS for a botched laparotomy?!


Question: Can I sue the NHS for a botched laparotomy?
I had an operation last month where I wasn't closed up properly so I developed a haematoma. I was out of hospital when the wound opened up and was leaking infected blood. I was rushed back in and had to have IV antibiotics and they had to drain the wound without anaesthesia. One word - OUCH. And here I am, almost two months after the operation with a wound that won't close and having to wear bandages 24 hours a day. I was meant to be fully healed by now but I suspect that it's getting infected again because I'm still in a fair bit of pain.
Anyway, anyone with more info on the subject who could impart some wisdom, it would be great.
Thanks
xx

Answers:

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

You will need to consult a specialist in medical negligence and see what your options are.

You have plenty of time to do this and (years) and if you do it now it will be only notification of intention to pursue a case as the final outcome is not yet known and how it will effect you in the long term.

Try not to use a no win no fee type of deal as they for a fairly quick outcome on average and yours may be a longer term issue.

It will down to expert opinion on closure or whether the haematoma caused the closure to open, Haematoma is a build up of fluid and can easily cause a wound to open and can cause some nerve compression and pain. Not the other way round normally. Infection will occur in any situation and it is up to experts to prove how that was part of it and when it occurred.

For the moment concentrate on getting well rather than simmering about how unfair the whole situation. Talk to your own GP about pain management and get a medication cocktail that will work for you. Less pain means a more positive outlook as well.

You have years before the time is up on legal process.


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