It has been reported in the BBC News that Maidstone Hospital, Kent, has halted gastrointestinal (GI) key-hole surgery for 12 months following the revelation that five deaths could have been avoided.
The deaths happened in 2012 and 2013 when patients suffered complications after innovative upper GI key-hole surgery, which was given a high profile launch and included Consultants and Trainees being able to watch the surgeries on a screen.
One family, on behalf of a man who died following key-hole surgery to remove a tumour in his oesophagus in 2013, are already bringing legal action against Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, the Trust responsible for Maidstone Hospital.
The other families have apparently been written to by the Trust, to apologise and to arrange meetings.
Medical director Dr Paul Sigston told the news: “We are sorry that some patients did not receive the level of care and treatment that they should have due to potentially avoidable surgical complications. We are in contact with, and have apologised to, the families who have been affected and have been clear that we need to make improvements.”
If you are one of the families that has been contacted by Maidstone Hospital or have lost a relative or friend through key-hole surgery, then please contact us for a free, no obligation assessment on 0800 999 5585 or 01227 784 337.