Doncaster WomanS Lung Removed Following False Cancer diagnosis
doncaster, UK - A Doncaster woman had a lung unnecessarily removed after a misdiagnosis of cancer, leading to lasting respiratory problems and a significant impact on her quality of life. The case, resolved with a settlement, highlights the challenges faced by the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic and the importance of robust clinical processes.
The patient, Mrs. Hay, underwent surgery believing she had cancer. Following the procedure, she discovered the diagnosis was incorrect. “I am so very, very grateful that it wasn’t cancer, but I had to go through all of that and know this is probably never going to get any better now,” she said.
Since the surgery, Mrs. Hay has experienced debilitating respiratory issues. “I’ve had asthma as I was 17, but my respiratory problems have increased unbelievably since the surgery,” she explained. “It’s fully floored me. Just talking or walking into the kitchen can set my symptoms off. Sometimes I feel like my lungs are too heavy for my body,other times my breathing difficulties are so bad it’s like I’ve had the operation again.” The condition impacts her ability to work, perform daily tasks, and fulfill her roles as a mother and wife, leaving her feeling “inadequate.”
Mrs. Hay pursued a clinical negligence claim through Medical Solicitors. While neither Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust nor Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust admitted liability or causation, a settlement was reached.
Dr. Nick Mallaband, acting executive medical director at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching hospitals NHS Trust, issued an apology. “We are sorry for the distress experienced by Mrs Hay and recognize the impact this has had on her and her family,” he stated.
Dr. Mallaband acknowledged the exceptional challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic during the time of the misdiagnosis. “This case took place during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, which presented exceptional challenges and restrictions across the NHS. Though, this does not lessen the importance of learning from what happened,” he said. The Trust has since strengthened its clinical processes and dialog with patients to ensure concerns are addressed. “These improvements are part of our ongoing work to help ensure something like this does not happen again.”
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has been contacted for comment.
