Damages for fatal botched operation

The family of a former miner who died after his spleen was ruptured during a routine operation has received £12,000 in compensation. He died when he failed to recover from open surgery to repair his spleen ruptured when medical staff inserted a chest drain. He had been admitted to hospital with pneumonia after complaining about breathlessness. A pathologist’s report later showed the chest drain had been inserted too low causing the rupture and massive internal bleeding. The Trust admitted liability and formally apologised to the family. The £12,000 settlement includes £10,000 in bereavement compensation and payment of funeral costs.