Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors Recovers Compensation in Unique Amputation Medical Negligence Case

Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors has succeeded in recovering compensation for a client who negligently underwent an above-the-knee amputation of her right leg.

Michelle Richards, a Spina Bifida sufferer from Wales, had to have her right leg amputated below the knee in 1995 after a serious infection of a wound in her foot failed to heal. This was appropriate action to take at the time and in the subsequent years she managed to lead a normal and active life with the use of a prosthetic lower leg.

However, in 2003 Ms Richards began to suffer with skin rashes and pain in her stump. She was diagnosed with chronic osteomyelitis and told she required an above-the-knee amputation, which she underwent at Glan Clwyd General Hospital in 2006.

Further examinations following the amputation, though, showed she had not in fact been suffering from the condition, and that the amputation had been unnecessary.

As a result of the negligent procedure, Ms Richards underwent pain and suffering, as well as a loss of amenity, independence and mobility. Her marriage also suffered greatly, as her husband was heavily relied upon to provide her with care.

Furthermore, because of how difficult she found it to adapt to her new above-the-knee prosthesis, she suffered a number of falls, one of which resulted in multiple spinal fractures.

However, with the help of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors LLP, the unique case was brought to court and was eventually settled after the defendant - Betsi Cadwaladr Local Health Board – offered adequate compensation for the medical error.

Commenting on the case, Kay Kelly, solicitor at the law firm, said: “We’re all delighted that Michelle has got the justice that she deserves. Compensation obviously doesn’t right the wrongs of medical negligence, but it goes a long way to helping people lead a normal life. And with this case being a success, she can now focus all her attention on just that.”

Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors LLP is a leading law firm based in Shropshire, with expert solicitors who are leaders in their field. For further information about medical negligence compensation claims – or any other kind of compensation claim - visit the company’s website: http://www.lblaw.co.uk/

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Amanda Jones

Business Development & Marketing Manager

Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors LLP

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