Overview
The Complainant (Mr C) had Peyronie's disease and underwent surgery to correct it. He complained that the operation that was carried out was not the one that had been discussed prior to surgery and that it was not carried out properly. Mr C subsequently encountered a number of complications that resulted in further corrective surgery. Mr C also complained that Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Board (the Board) failed to offer appropriate aftercare following his operation.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that the Board failed to:
- (a) provide the correct treatment for Mr C's Peyronie's disease (not upheld);
- (b) warn Mr C of the potential complications of the procedure that was carried out (upheld); and
- (c) provide adequate aftercare following Mr C's surgery (not upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) provide patients with information relating to the potential complications of surgery, in writing, at the point of gaining their consent;
- (ii) advise patients of the fact that the surgery provided may differ to that proposed prior to surgery and that they keep a record that this advice has been given; and
- (iii) remind staff of the importance of recording any advice, medication or supplies provided to patients.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.