Scaphoid fracture – failure to diagnose

£60,000
Defendants: West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust

Facts

The claimant, a man of 23 years old, had an injury playing football. He fell and hurt his wrist and went to hospital. X-rays were taken but a fracture to the scaphoid bone was missed on the films and he was sent home without treatment.

When he was later diagnosed with a fractured scaphoid, he had suffered permanent damage and now has some problems with use of his hand.

Allegations

• Failure to interpret the X-rays correctly and to diagnose a scaphoid fracture.
• Failure to immobilise the scaphoid fracture and prevent permanent damage.

Result

Court proceedings were issued and served. After the hospital had the chance to examine the original X-ray (which the claimant had in his possession) liability was admitted.

The defendants then opened negotiations and terms of settlement were finally agreed in the sum of £60,000.