The NHS Trust responsible for the hospital where the procedure took place admitted liability and issued a formal apology after the patient was not given the correct reversal drug at the end of the operation. 

An investigation confirmed that the adequacy of the reversal was not checked before transfer to recovery, and that there were delays in both recognising the error and returning her to theatre for full monitoring and ventilatory support. 

As a result, she experienced a rare but terrifying event known as anaesthetic awareness — fully awake but unable to move or communicate until the mistake was identified and corrected. 

The ordeal has left her with long-term psychological injuries, including complex PTSD, flashbacks, insomnia, and chronic anxiety, significantly affecting her personal life and career. 

The patient, who was represented by Thompsons, received a five-figure settlement to reflect the seriousness of what happened and its lasting impact. 

The Trust has since recommended safety improvements, including stricter drug labelling and additional checks on muscle relaxant reversal. Enhanced monitoring protocols in line with national guidance were also advised. 

While welcoming the apology and settlement, the woman is calling for wider reassurances that lessons have been implemented across the NHS to prevent others suffering similar harm. 

“It was utterly terrifying,” she said. “I woke up after the surgery and knew I was awake, but I couldn’t move or speak. I felt like I was suffocating and thought I was dying. 

“This has affected every part of my life. The apology is welcome, but I need reassurance that changes have been made — not just locally but nationally.” 

Clair Wilson, a medical law expert at Thompsons Solicitors, based in the firm’s Newcastle office, said the case raised “serious concerns about anaesthetic practice and patient safety” and underlined the importance of ensuring learning from such incidents is applied across the healthcare system.