Decision Report 202001741

Summary

C was suffering from swelling and pain in their right knee. C attended an appointment with a consultant vascular surgeon (a specialist in the treatment of diseases affecting the vascular system including diseases of the arteries, veins and lymphatic vessels). The consultant noted that C had varicose veins (swollen and enlarged veins that usually occur on the legs and feet) but believed them to be uncomplicated. The consultant felt the swelling in the right leg was not caused by a problem with the veins and that there were no other symptoms of venous disease. C was not referred for vascular surgery. C had an ultrasound scan which confirmed the lump on the leg and the symptoms were likely caused by a trapped nerve.

C complained that the care and treatment provided were not reasonable and that it was unreasonable not to refer them for varicose vein surgery.

We took independent advice from a consultant adviser. We found that the examination and conclusions of the board were reasonable on the basis of C’s condition at the time. We noted that there were no indications that further vascular investigations/treatments needed to be offered. Additionally, we were satisfied the board had appropriately applied the National Policy NHS Protocol for access to Varicose Vein surgery.

We did not uphold the complaints.