A man shared his experience of undergoing a significant amputation following a distressing misdiagnosis at an NHS facility. Ron Bigwood, residing in Chelmsford, Essex, initially sought medical help in September 2014 for intense pain in his right calf and was directed to NHS Broomfield Hospital. Despite his visits to doctors, a critical misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment ensued, culminating in the amputation of his right leg below the knee.
Following an admittance of 95% liability by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, Ron, now 69, was compensated with a substantial sum after being diagnosed in November 2014 with a severe circulatory condition, despite lacking typical symptoms. Subsequent investigations revealed a blood clot, which, according to his legal representatives at Irwin Mitchell, should have been managed with medication rather than a surgical procedure. Despite undergoing an angioplasty in February 2015 to widen narrowed arteries, deemed unnecessary and unsuitable, his condition deteriorated rapidly, resulting in severe pain and foot tissue damage by April, confirmed by a scan revealing critical blockages.
Following an unsuccessful 10-hour vascular operation in late April, Ron’s right leg was amputated below the knee on June 1 of the same year. The Trust acknowledged a series of care lapses, including the misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment decisions, inadequate consent processes, and negligent surgical handling, all contributing to the avoidable amputation.
Formerly an active and self-sufficient individual, Ron expressed the challenging adjustments post-amputation, with basic activities like climbing stairs and shopping now posing daily hurdles that sometimes necessitate assistance. Despite now relying on a prosthetic leg, he continues to battle various painful conditions related to the amputation.
Determined to enhance his mobility and independence for his family, Ron has made significant progress in his recovery, transitioning from struggling indoors to walking long distances to the local store. He is considering a mobility scooter to combat fatigue during lengthier outings, with a goal of regaining maximum independence and relocating to a more accommodating residence.
Ron highlighted the positive impact of his family’s unity post-amputation, citing them as his primary motivation to persevere. Additionally, he remains connected to his passion for pigeon racing, maintaining a sense of normalcy and community engagement. The interim financial support provided by Irwin Mitchell will aid in essential rehabilitation, prosthetic care, and home modifications for enhanced accessibility.
During Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month in April, Ron aimed to shed light on the consequences of misdiagnoses and the significance of learning from mistakes to safeguard future patients. Louise Forsyth, Ron’s legal representative at Irwin Mitchell, emphasized the enduring impact of the misdiagnosis on Ron’s life and the importance of improving patient safety within vascular care to prevent similar life-altering incidents.