Amputee to report op blunder surgeon
AN Oakenshaw man who lost his leg following complications for corrective surgery is to report his surgeon to the General Medical Council.
Simon Aitcheson, a 21-year-old accounts clerk, was admitted to Leeds General Infirmary in June 2008 for a highly specialist operation to correct a three centimetre left leg length discrepancy and a deformity on his foot.
However, complications arose following the procedure that meant he had his leg amputated.
He now has long term mobility problems and will need further care, an adapted house and special prosthesis.
Mr Aitcheson, who said his life had been turned "upside down", has instructed law firm Irwin Mitchell to report the orthopaedic surgeon, Toby Branfoot, to the GMC.
"I cannot describe what the last 12 months have been like for me," he said.
"No amount of money can compensate for the life-changing circumstances I have had to adjust to.
"Eighteen months ago I had my whole life ahead of me and was working hard and taking my accounts exams. I have had to give this all up now to rebuild my life and make plans for a new future.
"I hope to pick up my course again and complete my training and try to live as much of a normal life as is possible."
Rachelle Mahapatra, head of the medical law team at Irwin Mitchell, said: "The amputation is an unnecessary tragedy which will affect his personal and professional life and is likely to cause further medical problems as he grows older."
The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has launched its own investigation into the consultant.
A spokesman for the trust said: "As a result of the concerns raised, the trust asked the Royal College of Surgeons to look into a small number of cases of complex trauma surgery in order to have an independent expert professional view of the treatment and outcomes.
"A further review of cases is in progress. This is routine in such investigations. Where there is reason for concern patients will be contacted directly by the Trust."
Mr Branfoot is no longer carrying out surgery at LGI and is pending a Royal College of Surgeons assessment, followed by an investigation from the GMC.
He is currently performing non-clinical duties voluntarily.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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