We have been acting for a client (now aged 40) who is unhappy with treatment she received at Great Western Hospital during 2012. Briefly, she had an orthodontic brace fitted to her mouth in readiness for surgery to reposition her jaw. During the surgery, a hook from the brace came away and became embedded in the surgical wound. The surgeon did not realise that this had happened and took no steps to retrieve the missing hook.
Following the operation, our client suffered an adverse reaction to the metal in her mouth and this caused her a number of problems, including severe facial swelling. She had to undergo a second surgical procedure in an attempt to remove the orthodontic hook but this was unsuccessful. It remains embedded in her jaw. She has now gone onto develop a somatisation disorder which may have been caused or contributed to by the alleged negligence.
The hospital denied liability and our client had no option but to issue proceedings. She was understandably anxious that the case was concluded as soon as possible and, following negotiations between the parties, we were able to reach a satisfactory settlement. Her loss of earnings claim was minimal. Fortunately, her job is secure.
S. J. Edney solicitors obtained compensation of £35,000 for this client during 2015