Surgeon failed to warn patient about risk of postoperative pain

What happened

Mrs J had a minor surgical procedure and was discharged from hospital the same day. She had expected her recovery time to be one week. Her wound became infected within a couple of days, and needed antibiotics. Mrs J remained in severe pain and went to A&E, where staff prescribed her strong pain relief. She was unable to get a follow–up appointment with her surgeon for several days so went back to A&E, where she was admitted for assessment. Mrs J was discharged the following day.

Mrs J complained to the Trust about her experiences. She also said that she had had to spend money on prescriptions and private treatment for pain after a procedure she had understood to be straightforward, and she had needed to have six weeks' sick leave from work.

What we found

Mrs J suffered known complications of the surgery she had. The complications were not caused by failings by the Trust. However, Mrs J was not made aware preoperatively that pain is a common complication of the procedure she was having. This was a failing and although it would not have changed her overall experience, she would at least have been more prepared.

Putting it right

The Trust apologised to Mrs J for giving her incomplete information about the risks of the procedure. It also took action to learn from her experience.