In December 2018, our client was admitted to a Public Hospital to undergo a routine day procedure for varicose veins under general anaesthetic.
Towards the end of the procedure, the anaesthetist administered what is known as a “reversal agent” to reverse the effects of the general anaesthetic, but our client was inadvertently administered the incorrect medication which caused her extreme hypertension (high blood pressure), and developed Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (a heart condition brought on by stress either emotional or physical – in our client’s case, the extremely high blood pressure) leading to acute pulmonary oedema and subsequent lengthy admission to the Intensive Care Unit.
Fortunately, most people who suffer Takotsubo cardiomyopathy spontaneously recover however, they are at risk of experiencing more incidents throughout their life and need to be aware of the symptoms of further episodes.
Our client’s expert cardiological evidence established that she will be more likely to suffer from major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events compared with the normal population.
She was also assessed by an expert psychiatrist who diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder caused by the quite reasonable belief that she may have died from the damage done to her heart and also, due to the increased risk of having a recurrence of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
Consequently, our client changed her once active lifestyle and for some time, would not leave her home for fear of stressful situations. She also became fearful of hospitals and the medical profession generally.
We were pleased to provide representation and support our client in receiving substantial compensation for her injuries.
If you or a loved one has experienced surgical or anaesthetic injury, our expert medical lawyers can help advocate for you and seek justice.
To confidentially discuss your needs call us on 1800 874 949 or fill in the form below, and we will be in touch.
