A young woman tragically passed away due to a bowel obstruction that was not diagnosed despite multiple hospital visits. Her family has settled their medical negligence claim against the NHS trust.
Timeline of events
Isabel has experienced ongoing abdominal pain and digestive problems for several years. From autumn 2019 till mid-2020, she experienced recurring abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, and bloating. During this time, she attended her GP, called NHS 111, and visited hospital services on several occasions. Investigations including ultrasounds, X rays, and blood tests were carried out, but no cause was identified. Her symptoms were repeatedly attributed to constipation or menstrual discomfort, and she was managed conservatively with advice, laxatives, and medication.
In the early autumn of 2021, Isabel returned to A&E with severe epigastric pain and vomiting. Despite concerning blood test results indicating infection and metabolic disturbance, she was discharged after her pain temporarily eased. She was advised that her symptoms were likely due to chronic constipation, without further urgent investigation or referral. Tragically, the following morning, Isabel was found unresponsive at home and later pronounced dead. The cause of death was confirmed as bowel obstruction complicated by peritonitis and gangrene of the colon.
How we helped Isabel’s medical negligence claim
Our team investigated Isabel’s case thoroughly, obtaining independent expert medical evidence. While her symptoms were rare and complex, there were failings in her assessment and follow up that contributed to her tragic outcome. The claim was settled out of court, providing her family with the recognition of the impact of these failings and a measure of accountability for the care she received.
A note from Natalizia Capizzi
“Isabel’s case is profoundly heartbreaking and highlights how serious abdominal conditions can be overlooked, especially when symptoms appear intermittent or resemble more common ailments. Her family faced an unimaginable loss. We are grateful to have supported them in achieving a settlement that acknowledges the suffering caused and reinforces the importance of learning from these failings.”
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