Group Of Patients All Suffered Complications After Similar Surgery At Bristol Hospital

Specialist medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell’s Bristol office have been instructed by a group of patients affected by colorectal procedures in the city.

Irwin Mitchell has been instructed by three women and has spoken to several other patients who were all treated under North Bristol NHS Trust. They have suffered from complications following treatment for haemorrhoids and some are also concerned about their consent to the procedures they received when they expected to undergo lesser surgery.

The patients, who wish to remain anonymous, underwent procedures at Southmead Hospital including STARR treatment whereby surgical staples are used to perform a rectal resection. However some have told lawyers these procedures were carried out without their knowledge and consent after being advised they were being taken in for a lesser procedure to treat haemorrhoids.

Expert Opinion

“We are very concerned by what we have heard and although the legal action is at a very early stage, the fact that several people have already come forward complaining of similar issues is worth investigating.

“The main issue seems to be people undergoing what is known as a STARR procedure, a resection of the rectum usually performed when there have been symptoms of obstructed defecation. There are also questions about whether they consented to the procedures they underwent as, in some circumstances, the decision to undertake a far more invasive procedure appears to have been taken whilst the patient is under anaesthetic.

“The patients have told us that they have spoken to others affected too and there are concerns that there may be other women who are not aware of the complications. They just want to ensure that the issues are properly investigated and that any potential lessons are learned to improve patient safety where possible.” Luke Trevorrow - Senior Associate

Anyone affected by these issues can speak in confidence to Luke Trevorrow at Irwin Mitchell Bristol on 0117 926 1534 or email luke.trevorrow@irwinmitchell.com.