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Hull woman sues local PCT after error inserting Implanon contraceptive device.

Olivia Sewell, who was 24 at the time, had her old Implanon rod (inserted in 2001) removed on 5.7.04 and a new one inserted. An Implanon rod is a contraceptive device measuring 4cm x 2mm that is inserted under the skin and slowly releases progestogen. It is alleged that the Implanon rod was inserted too deeply in her upper left arm, resulting in permanent nerve damage. She telephoned to complain of pins and needles in her fingers 2 days later, but was reassured these symptoms were normal. When attempts were made to remove the Implanon rod 3 years later this could not be located and was therefore left in her arm, with a new Implanon rod inserted in her other arm. Because of the increased hormone levels from both Implanon rods she suffered with nausea, vertigo and bleeding. After an ultrasound scan located the missing Implanon rod, it was necessary for her to undergo surgery on 12.10.07 to remove this. She continues to suffer intermittent tingling in the little and ring fingers of her hand and an electric type shock pain upon moving her affected arm.

After Hull NHS Teaching Primary Care Trust denied liability in respect of Olivia’s medical treatment, Court proceedings were commenced on her behalf and these are ongoing.

Olivia’s Solicitor, Natalie Simkin of Williamsons Solicitors said: “I am aware of other patients who have experienced problems with the fitting of an Implanon device at Conifer House, Hull which suggests Olivia’s case is not just a one-off occurrence. Unfortunately for Olivia the nerve damage which she experiences in unlikely to recover. With the recent national media coverage of problems with Implanon devices there may be a considerable number of women who have suffered avoidable harm”.

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