A MAN who suffered severe injuries after contracting a flesh-eating virus following surgery to repair a hernia has settled his High Court action.
The man, who cannot be identified by order of Mr Justice John Quirke, had sued Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, Co Galway, arising from an operation he underwent there in July 2001.
The court heard injuries the man suffered to the area around his lower abdomen, groin and upper thigh due to the virus had had “a catastrophic effect” on him, both physically and mentally.
Liability in the case was admitted and the matter was before Mr Justice Quirke for assessment of damages only. The case was settled yesterday on terms not disclosed in court, but it is understood the man is to receive a substantial six-figure payment.
The man alleged the hospital caused him to develop the virus (necrotising fasciitis) and renal failure but failed to diagnose both; failed to provide him with antibiotics to prevent the spread of infection prior to surgery and failed to take his complaints seriously after the operation.He claimed the hospital failed to administer appropriate antibiotics when he started showing symptoms consistent with the virus and failed to replace the empty bag providing intravenous saline/medication.
He said he was made redundant due to his injuries and continued to experience pain and to suffer from stress and depression. He said he was unable to engage in physical activities, his relationship with his wife had been affected and he had concerns about his fertility.