Background of Cleavage Sparing Mastectomies
The controversial cleavage sparing mastectomies were carried out by Mr Ian Paterson, a surgeon at Solihull Hospital, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust and the Spire Hospitals in Sutton Coldfield and Solihull. Mr Paterson retained small amounts of tissue in some patients for cosmetic reasons; this method is against national guidelines as the risk of the cancer returning is increased. Mr Paterson’s experimental technique caused widespread concern and has resulted in many women opting to undergo further surgery.
The solicitors acting for The Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust have put forward proposals and agreed to admit various legal aspects that arise from a compensation claim, providing the patient’s medical notes indicate that a cleavage sparing (or skin sparing mastectomy as it is often known) was performed. This will reduce delays and ensure a fair settlement is reached within a reasonable time.
Latest statement released by NHS Trust
According to a statement released by the trust on the 7th of December, further recalls are being made to cancer survivors treated by Mr Paterson in the Midlands area. The recalled patients will have the opportunity to have their case personally reviewed.
Private patients who are concerned should seek further medical advice. NHS patients who have had a change in circumstances should be aware that recall notices may not reach them.
Legal Advice without Obligation
Linda Millband, senior Clinical Negligence solicitor at Thompsons Solicitors is currently acting for a number of women who had treatment by Mr Paterson and is a member of the group of solicitors who are dealing with these cases.
Linda commented: “A recent meeting with the solicitors instructed by the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust showed that the Trust is anxious to resolve the claims as quickly as possible and is making early admissions of liability. This is clearly a very welcome development and it will result in early settlement of claims”.
Linda is happy to discuss any issues with any women affected free of charge and without obligation, either at our office in Birmingham city centre or at a home visit.
For further information read our Cleavage Sparing Mastectomy Factsheet or call 08000 224 224 to arrange to speak to a specialist solicitor about your individual case.
Concerned about negligent medical treatment or diagnoses? Talk to us for advice and support today.
Our discreet and compassionate medical negligence solicitors are experienced in the full range of medical injury claims and will work with you to establish whether you have a medical negligence compensation claim.
If you, or a loved one, think you have suffered medical negligence, such as a birth injury (for example, a cerebral palsy diagnosis following a difficult birth), misdiagnosis (such as cancer misdiagnosis), or suffered negligence during an operation contact us for advice.
If the incident happened more than three years ago, you will usually not be able to make a claim for compensation. However, exceptions do apply – such as instances where you could not have reasonably known your symptoms were caused by clinical negligence, or cases involves adults who lack legal capacity or children – so contact us for advice.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.