An NHS trust in north-east England has acknowledged that twenty women underwent mastectomies they did not need while receiving breast cancer care. County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust disclosed the findings after an internal investigation identified serious failings in its breast unit.
The internal investigation revealed that of the 514 cases reviewed, 315 patients were found to have been harmed, including 77 who suffered significant injuries and one recorded death.
The review also found missed or delayed cancer diagnoses, leaving some women facing the distressing prospect of their disease spreading.
The Trust is now considering extending the investigation back to 2015, which could involve re-evaluating up to 10,000 patient’s medical records.
The women affected have described profound physical and psychological trauma, and many are calling for a public inquiry to understand how these failures occurred and prevent others from experiencing similar harm. The National Crime Agency is also working with Durham Police to assess whether any criminal offences took place.
The chief executive of the Trust, Steve Russell, has said in a statement:
“We are deeply sorry to the women and families who have been harmed and let down by failings in our breast services…
We recognise the profound impact this has had and have been clear that there were opportunities when, as a trust, we should have listened more carefully and acted sooner.
Significant changes have since been made to the breast service and are bringing improvements for patients”
At Nalders, our specialist clinical negligence lawyers combine legal expertise with a practical understanding of the challenges clients face following adverse medical treatment. We provide clear advice, investigate claims thoroughly, obtain the necessary evidence, and support our clients throughout the process. To find out more, or to make an appointment to speak to one of our expert advisors, please contact our Clinical Negligence Department at clinicalnegligencereferrals@nalders.co.uk Alternatively, please call us on 01726 879333.