Inquest into the death of Mrs M, a much loved mother and grandmother who died in hospital following complications arising from anaesthetic

Ali Masterson of Ashtons Legal supported the family throughout the inquest process following the death of Mrs M, who sadly passed away in December 2021.

Mrs M, aged 59, had sustained a fracture to her right elbow after an accident at home. She attended her local hospital the next day who diagnosed the fracture and, after a clinic appointment, it was decided to perform ORIF surgery (open reduction/internal fixation) to aid healing.

Mrs M had a long-standing phobia of general anaesthetic and agreed to undergo the surgery under a regional anaesthetic.

Following this surgery, the wound became infected, and a second operation was required. This surgery again took place under regional anaesthetic.

Two weeks later, it became clear that further surgery was needed to remove the plate in Mrs M’s elbow. This operation proceeded under a general anaesthetic, and unfortunately, Mrs M suffered a violent allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to one of the components used in inducing anaesthesia and required resuscitation. Mrs M also suffered a right-sided pneumothorax.

Mrs M required admission to Intensive Care and, whilst in Intensive Care, Mrs M also suffered a left-sided pneumothorax. After two weeks in Intensive Care, Mrs M was assessed as capable of being discharged to a ward for further care in December 2021, however, her health rapidly deteriorated following transfer, and Mrs M sadly passed away on the evening of 10 December 2021.

The family’s lawyer is clinical negligence specialist Ali Masterson of Ashtons Legal, who comments: “The Inquest was very important to the family in determining the care Mrs M received from the hospital, to understand what happened and the reasoning behind decisions made in the lead up to her death. The Trust has updated its policies following an internal investigation, and it is hoped that this will prevent any similar situations. The inquest was extremely difficult for the family, but they were relieved to receive clarity about some of the concerns they raised.”

Contact our medical negligence solicitors today

If you believe we can assist you when pursuing a Medical Negligence claim, please get in contact with us on 0330 191 4835 or fill out our online enquiry form.

Our experienced team of lawyers will be able to offer advice and guide you through every step of the claims process and our in-house rehabilitation coordinators can help to support you through your recovery.