In July 2017 I blogged about compensation for bladder injuries whether as a result of an accident or medical negligence. In what was a very good outcome for my client, I have now reached an agreement to compromise the negligence claim referred to for a six figure settlement.
My client, aged 43 years and now living in Spain, had no urological issues prior to the surgery complained of on 2 September 2014. He developed bowel dysfunction in September 2011 which was investigated and he was found to have cancer. Early the following year he underwent treatment by way of an anterior resection. Though he was extremely unwell, his bladder remained unaffected and four days post-surgery his catheter was removed without issue.
Shortly following his discharge my client was re-admitted to hospital and underwent a Hartmann’s procedure to treat peritonitis resulting from a non-negligent surgical leak. He was given an end colostomy which was to be reversed following his recovery. There were no urological issues arising.
Nine months following the surgery my client was re-admitted to have his stoma reversed. Sadly, during the procedure his bladder was caught by the operating surgeon and he suffered a through and through trauma. Resulting problems included urinary frequency (in the daytime and night), reduced bladder sensation resulting in poorer bladder control, the need to strain to void.
Following an admission of liability, I secured funds to enable my client to pay for specialist urology treatment and periodical nursing input which had previously been lacking. He was prescribed medication to help stabilise his bladder and reduce further problems.
I was able to negotiate a £100,000 compensation award which covered my client’s lost earnings, care and assistance during his recovery, the cost of sanitary products and clothing as well as ongoing visits to a private urology clinic for treatment. On account of his surgery my client found himself more vulnerable to problems with heavy lifting so provision was made for him to have some ongoing support at home with cleaning and DIY. He was also awarded compensation to pay for some much needed counselling.
Such injuries can have a huge impact. This particular client was an example of somebody who had suffered greatly through no fault of his own and I was delighted to secure for him the compensation he very much deserved.
