Six-figure settlement for family of mum who died following failure to diagnose fatal brain haemorrhage

The woman, who we have called Sarah, died as a result of a subarachnoid haemorrhage – caused by bleeding on the surface of the brain – that was not spotted on a CT scan performed a week before she died. 

On 16 June 2021 Sarah, 34, experienced an extreme headache, nausea and confusion and was later taken to hospital after she suffered a sudden seizure.  

At the hospital, Sarah underwent a CT scan but was then sent home shortly after. The following day, Sarah’s symptoms continued so she returned to hospital but was sent home after doctors examined the results of the CT scan.  

Three days later, Sarah returned to hospital and was again discharged, this time with medication to help with her nausea and headaches. Whilst her symptoms did improve for a short time, the next day, on 21 June 2021, she collapsed at home and was taken to hospital in an ambulance. 

At the hospital, Sarah was placed on a ventilator and underwent a further CT scan where it was discovered that she had suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage.  

At this point, doctors re-examined the CT scan that Sarah had had a week earlier. The haemorrhage was clearly visible and had been missed by medical professionals. 

As a result of the delay in diagnosing her haemorrhage, fluid had developed on Sarah’s brain. She died in hospital on 23 June 2021. 

Following the inquest into Sarah’s death, a legal claim was brought against the NHS Trust responsible for the hospital where her original CT scan had been performed. 

The claim was brought on behalf of Sarah’s husband and their children by Leeds-based medical negligence partner at Leigh Day, Matthew Westlake. It was argued that the Trust’s negligence had caused Sarah’s death, as had her subarachnoid haemorrhage been spotted on the initial CT scan, Sarah would have had a high chance of making a full recovery. 

The NHS Trust responsible for the hospital admitted liability for Sarah’s death and a six-figure settlement was agreed. 

Matthew Westlake said: 

“This was a deeply tragic case involving the death of a much-loved wife and mother.  

“The failure to identify a life-threatening brain haemorrhage on the initial CT scan meant that Sarah was repeatedly discharged without the urgent care she needed. Had her haemorrhage been diagnosed earlier, Sarah would have had a strong chance of survival.  

“We hope this settlement brings some measure of accountability and recognition of the devastating impact this has had on the lives of Sarah’s family.” 

Matt Westlake instructed Paul Reynolds and Darragh Coffey of 1 Crown Office Row Chambers.