Investigation into the deaths of elderly patients at a Hull Hospital

The BBC reported that Humberside Police are investigating 11 deaths which occurred following a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedure.  

The TAVI procedure is an alternative to open heart surgery, and involves a catheter being used to insert a new valve into the heart via a blood vessel. This is used to treat aortic stenosis, by replacing the existing aortic valve, allowing for better blood flow to the heart. The procedure is intended to be relatively painless, with a quick recovery time.  

The NHS website states that the main advantages to the TAVI procedure are the removal of the need for a patient’s heart to be stopped and the need for a large incision, as would be necessary in open-heart surgery. This makes the procedure a good option to patients for whom the risk of surgery would be high, such as elderly patients or those with underlying conditions.  

However, the procedure comes with risks. The University Hospital Southampton, who are not involved with the ongoing investigation, state these as: risk of stroke or heart attack, the potential requirement of a pacemaker, or the risk of an operation for excessive bleeding. It is stated that the risk of death within 30 days is 2%.

The mortality rate from the TAVI procedure at Castle Hill Hospital, near Hull, is reported as being three times the national average. “Staff concerns within the hospital” led to multiple reviews on care provided by the team. The BBC say that they have had sight of three inquiries conducted between 2020 and 2024 regarding the TAVI team at Castle Hill Hospital. The families of those affected were not aware of these inquiries until they were contacted by the BBC.

The 2024 review found inaccuracies in death certificates, particularly in the recorded cause of death, and poor decision making from the TAVI team. However, the Trust maintains that its mortality rate, in relation to the TAVI procedure and similar procedures, is in line with the national average.  

For our clients, knowing the whole truth is hugely impactful. We know first-hand how important is for families to get answers and have their voices heard. It is hoped that the ongoing investigation can provide necessary answers and learning.

Humberside Police have advised that the investigation is still in the early stages and that no arrests have been made to date.