Delay in diagnosis of fractures

The Claimant was involved in a motorcycle accident on private land and was taken to the Defendant Hospital Accident & Emergency Department, where x-rays and scans were arranged.

These radiological investigations consisted of a CT of the head, cervical spine, chest, abdomen and pelvis, which was reported to showed multiple rib fractures.  There was no mention of the shoulders, pelvis or hips.  An x-ray of the Claimants chest and left shoulder and no obvious fracture was seen. 

The Claimant thereafter remained on the ward and her pain was controlled.

The Claimant was discharged from hospital one week following the accident, and routine referral was made to the Orthopaedic Team at her local hospital.

On her return home, the Claimant suffered with severe pain and discomfort in her hips, ankle, left wrist and neck. 

When the Claimant was seen by the Orthopaedic Team she was still complaining of severe pain in both hips when walking. CT scans then revealed a posterior dislocation of the lateral end of the left clavicle, an undisplaced fracture of the left neck of the femur and an undisplaced fracture of the posterior lip of the right acetabulum. 

The Claimant was therefore admitted to hospital and underwent surgery.

The Claimant continued to suffer with pain in the left hand.  She underwent an MRI scan which revealed a small tear of the triangular fibrocartilaginous complex in the left wrist.  She was referred to a Hand Specialist.

She also continued to suffer with chronic low back pain radiating into the right groin and down the right leg.  She underwent further investigation and treatment by a Pain Specialist and Orthopaedic and Spinal Surgeons.

It was alleged and later admitted that the Defendants discharged the Claimant from hospital with two broken hips, as a result of which she has suffered unnecessary and avoidable pain and suffering, albeit the treatment required was the same, but later. 

As a failure to diagnose the injuries to her right ankle and left wrist, the Claimant suffered from unnecessary additional distress, anxiety and pain.

A settlement was agreed by negotiation and £5000 was awarded.