When medical treatment goes wrong, the impact is rarely limited to the moment itself. It often becomes something a person carries with them every day, affecting how they work, move and live.
In this case, Louise Smith, a Clinical Negligence Solicitor in our Medical Negligence team, secured £30,000 in compensation for a client who was left with a permanent thumb deformity following negligent surgical treatment. Louise supports clients from NBB Waldrons offices including Birmingham, Dudley, Walsall and Worcester and beyond. She regularly advises on complex clinical negligence claims, helping individuals understand what has gone wrong and how to move forward.
What Went Wrong During Surgery
From my perspective, cases like this are often about more than the procedure itself. They are about understanding where standards have fallen short and the lasting impact that has on someone’s life.
The client underwent surgery at Walsall Manor Hospital in June 2014 to address issues with their thumb. The procedure should have improved function, but it was not carried out to an acceptable standard.
In this case, there was a failure to remove the bone and position the plate correctly, which left the thumb fixed in the wrong position. There was also a failure to remove the plate and screws within the expected timeframe following surgery.
As a result, the thumb remained restricted, painful and visibly affected, with the metalwork prominent beneath the skin. The client experienced reduced grip strength and difficulty with fine motor tasks.
The Lasting Impact on Daily Life
One of the most important aspects of any medical negligence claim is understanding the real impact on the individual.
The client was left with what is often described as a “zigzag” deformity to the thumb. This affected both its appearance and function. Everyday tasks became more difficult, and although the client adapted and continued working, the symptoms remained.
Across England and Wales, cases involving surgical error continue to form a significant proportion of claims. Data from NHS Resolution shows that failures in treatment and surgical care remain a key area of concern within clinical negligence.
How the Medical Negligence Claim Was Investigated
When the client approached us, the first step was to investigate the treatment thoroughly.
Independent expert orthopaedic evidence was obtained, which confirmed that the surgery had not been performed to a reasonable standard. The thumb fusion was incorrectly positioned, and the consent process had been inadequate. The client had not been properly advised of alternative treatment options before proceeding.
It was also established that the failure to remove the metalwork as planned fell below an acceptable standard of care.
The Defendant made an early admission that the surgery had not been performed competently. Following further expert evidence on condition and prognosis, we were able to secure a settlement of £30,000.
Why This Case Matters
Cases like this highlight the importance of both clinical standards and communication.
Surgical procedures must be carried out to the appropriate standard, but equally, patients must be properly informed before consenting to treatment. Guidance from the General Medical Council reinforces the need for clear, informed consent and patient understanding.
Although the client regained some function, they were left with a permanent deformity that could have been avoided with appropriate care.
Louise reflects:
“Medical negligence cases are not just about what went wrong at the time of treatment. They are about the lasting effect on someone’s life. Where standards fall short, it is important that patients are supported in understanding their position and seeking the right outcome.”
How Our Medical Negligence Team Can Help
At NBB Waldrons, our Medical Negligence team supports clients through every stage of a claim.
From my perspective, it is about helping people make sense of what has happened and guiding them through what can often feel like a complex process. That includes gathering expert evidence, building the case and ensuring the full impact is recognised.
Speak to a Medical Negligence Solicitor
If you believe you have been affected by negligent medical treatment, it is important to seek advice early. I would be happy to discuss your situation and help you understand your options with clarity and confidence.
