Cardiac surgery compensation claims
Cardiac surgery carries the risk of complications specific to the procedure being performed, in addition to the general risks of surgery.
General risks of surgery
The possible complications of surgery in general include an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic, infection, excessive bleeding or developing a blood clot.
Complications of cardiac surgery
Complications will differ depending on the surgery undertaken but can include:
- heart attack
- abnormal heart rhythm
- stroke - often caused by clots that form in the blood after surgery
- heart block – where a valve is replaced, the conducting system of the heart may become damaged, requiring a pacemaker
- cardiac tamponade (pericardial tamponade). This is a life-threatening condition where the sac surrounding the heart (the pericardium) fills with blood, making it difficult, or impossible, for the heart to function fully
- neurological complications such as vision problems, paralysis, hoarseness, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, movement disorders and disturbances in learning, memory, attention, concentration and mental agility
- infection which may lead to endocarditis (infection of the heart muscle)
- damage to blood vessels around the heart
Example of one of our case wins
- Death following cardiac surgery - Won: £115,000
We acted on behalf of the family of a lady who died following cardiac surgery. The patient underwent an angioplasty to treat angina. During that treatment, her artery was pierced. The surgeon failed to notice that this had happened. The patient was unwell following the procedure but nursing staff failed to realise the seriousness of her condition. She suffered a cardiac arrest, irreversible brain damage and died as a result. We were able to settle the claim on behalf of her husband and three children, securing damages of £115,000.
How we can help
If a medical professional has failed to exercise due care during a cardiac procedure and complications result, you may have a claim against them.
Cardiac surgery claims
For free, expert advice on making a compensation claim, click here or call us free on 0800 0382 382. We are available to take your call twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
If you want to provide some details to us in advance, why not let us assess your claim now.
