We are pleased to share the story of Victoria (not her real name), for whom our Medical Negligence team has recently settled a claim for compensation in respect of delay in diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the pelvic lining, and in more severe cases, it can spread to other organs such as the bowel and bladder.

Victoria had a longstanding history of gynaecological symptoms, including pain and heavy bleeding, which were treated and monitored by her GP from approximately the age of 15.

Victoria visited her GP, suspecting she might be suffering from endometriosis and she requested a gynaecological referral.

About a month later, she was seen by a Consultant Gynaecologist at a local hospital. At this stage, her symptoms included bleeding (including bleeding between periods), abdominal bloating, pain on bowel movements during her periods, and occasional stress incontinence.

The Consultant suggested that Victoria undergo a transvaginal ultrasound scan, which took place 2 months later. No further investigations followed this scan, until 18 months later, when she had a further ultrasound scan. This revealed a complex left ovarian cyst measuring 8cm.

It was only at this stage that Victoria underwent surgical investigation, known as a laparotomy, from which she underwent surgical removal of one ovary and one fallopian tube. She was started on hormone injections, which induced a chemical menopause.

In addition, it was found that Victoria’s endometriosis had spread to her colon. She required further surgery in which the endometriosis was removed, as well as removing the part of the colon was removed which had been infiltrated by endometriosis.

As a result of the extent of the endometriosis and the treatment required for this, Victoria is unable to conceive naturally and will require IVF treatment in order to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a mother.

Victoria instructed Wayne Walker and Katy Evans from our Medical Negligence team to look into the care that she had received, as she strongly felt that the endometriosis should have been diagnosed and treated sooner, before it had spread to such an extent. Following investigation with the assistance of experienced experts in gynaecology and reproductive medicine, it was identified that Victoria was not appropriately examined at her initial consultation with the Gynaecologist at the local Hospital and that, had this occurred, she would have undergone a laparoscopy and received a diagnosis of superficial endometriosis much sooner. The endometriosis would have been treated at that time and subsequently been well-controlled. She would not have gone on to develop the severe endometriosis which had spread to the colon and which required such significant surgical treatment following diagnosis; she would have kept her ovary and fallopian tube, and she would not have had to undergo surgery to the colon.

Wayne and Katy successfully achieved a 6 figure financial settlement for Victoria, who was delighted with the outcome. Equally important to obtaining compensation were the much needed answers and justice that Wayne and Katy were able to secure for Victoria. Wayne comments as follows:

“I am proud of my team’s collective contribution to bring Victoria’s claim to a successful conclusion, and it is only right that Katy receives the accolades for a job well done. Katy worked tirelessly to attain settlement and her empathy and understanding shone through”

If you have experienced delay in diagnosis or treatment of endometriosis, or any gynaecological issues, please contact our experienced Solicitors who would be happy to discuss your queries.