Overview
The complainant (Mrs C) raised concerns regarding the orthopaedic treatment received by her husband (Mr A) at Crosshouse Hospital in the area of Ayrshire and Arran NHS Board (the Board). Mr A fractured his left ankle on 4 May 2007 and this was treated surgically on 8 May 2007. However, he had existing Peripheral Vascular Disease (a narrowing of the arteries) which contributed to his surgical wound failing to heal and he subsequently had to have his left leg amputated below the knee on 22 August 2008. Mrs C complained that Mr A's wound was managed inappropriately and that, as a result, his left leg was unnecessarily amputated. The specific complaints are listed below.
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that:
- (a) there was a failure to recognise Mr A's existing vascular condition and the decision to operate was inappropriate (upheld); and
- (b) Mr A's post-operative treatment was inappropriate (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Board:
- (i) highlight this report to the relevant staff, particularly junior doctors, to ensure that they are aware of the deficiencies which have been identified; and
- (ii) apologise to Mr A for their failure to identify and take into account his vascular condition when deciding to operate on his ankle fracture, and for the delay in referring him for vascular review when his surgical wound failed to heal.
The Board have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.