At Switalskis, we understand how an injury can have a lasting impact on daily life, hobbies, and independence. Our team in the North East is committed to supporting clients through complex medical negligence claims and ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Case Overview

Our client sustained an injury to her left ring finger while attending to her horse on 6 October 2019. She attended Sunderland Royal Hospital A&E, where x-rays showed a minimally displaced oblique fracture of the middle phalanx. She was advised that conservative treatment was appropriate and was provided with a splint, along with guidance on rest, elevation, and pain management.

Two weeks later, further x-rays confirmed the fracture was relatively stable, and surgical intervention was not deemed necessary. The client was told a referral had been made for hand therapy, but she did not receive further details.

Despite following medical advice, she continued to experience pain, restricted movement, and dissatisfaction with the appearance of her finger. Everyday tasks and activities she loved, including horse riding and playing a musical instrument, became difficult or impossible.

Subsequent Treatment and Complications

In July 2020, the client attended Sunderland Royal Hospital for an unrelated wrist operation. The surgeon noticed the deformity in her ring finger and advised she likely required surgery. Following further assessment in January 2022, she was placed on the waiting list for an osteotomy and fixation.

The operation, performed on 23 February 2022, did not achieve the intended outcome. Follow-up x-rays in April 2022 revealed the plate had been incorrectly positioned, passing across the PIP joint due to the surgeon not using an image intensifier. Investigations also found the wrong-sized plate had been used.

As a result, the client was left unable to bend the finger, experienced ongoing pain, and required further surgery to remove a protruding screw. It is likely she will need additional surgical intervention in the future.

Following detailed investigations, it was established that the standard of care provided fell below what could reasonably be expected of a consultant orthopaedic surgeon, constituting a breach of duty. South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has admitted liability in full. Steps are now underway to value the claim fairly.

How We Helped

Our Clinical Negligence team, led in this case by Associate Solicitor Kimberley Bradfield , ensured our client received expert advice and support throughout the process. We guided her through complex investigations, explained each stage of her claim, and helped secure an admission of liability resulting in a five-figure settlement.

At Switalskis, we are proud to support clients across the North East, ensuring they are heard, supported, and fairly compensated when medical care falls short.