By Chris Riches
The Express
ENGLAND — A former paramedic had the wrong part of his brain removed by a bungling NHS surgeon during an operation he didn’t even need.
John Tunney, 63, now requires full-time care after being left with brain damage and partial sight.
He had a biopsy for a pituitary tumour but the surgeon cut away healthy brain tissue by mistake, leading to a haemorrhage.
It was later discovered the tumour was benign and could have been controlled with drugs.
Lawyers for Mr Tunney, of Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, are seeking compensation and an investigation by the General Medical Council following the blunders at Coventry’s Walsgrave Hospital in 2008.
Solicitor Timothy Deeming said: “The fact that the surgeon managed to remove perfectly healthy tissue rather than a sample of the tumour tissue is, in itself, an appalling error.
“To then find that the procedure was totally unnecessary because clinicians had failed to review a blood test, really does add insult to injury.”
He added: “The failings of the surgeon involved are so serious that the family is calling on the GMC to investigate his actions.”
Mr Tunney’s wife Pamela, 64, said: “John’s brain injury has had devastating effects on him. Prior to the surgery, he was a very easy-going person who was always active and on the go.
“To see the change in him and to know that it was all entirely avoidable is extremely upsetting.
“As a paramedic, based at the Small Heath ambulance station with more than 23 y ears experience of working with the NHS, John put his complete trust in his surgeon, believing that he was an expert who knew best.
“It is appalling to think that the surgeon managed to botch the procedure completely, and then to find that the biopsy wasn’t even necessary makes me incredibly angry.
“I pray that no other family has to experience seeing their husband suffer the pain and loss that John has.”
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust has admitted liability.
Richard Kennedy, chief medical officer, said: “I very much regret the tragic outcome for Mr Tunney and his family and on behalf of the trust would like to apologise.
“Since 2008, this case has been thoroughly reviewed through our governance process and I am confident that measures have been put in place to prevent this type of incident reoccurring.
“For example, we now collaborate with expert clinicians at other trusts in these kinds of cases.”
Mr Deeming said: “The trust has now admitted liability for the errors.
“However, before a settlement can be reached, we will need to evaluate the substantial lifelong care and support that Mr Tunney will now require.
“Whilst no amount of money will turn back the clock for him and his family, the future settlement will hopefully provide him with financial security to pay for the lifetime of care that he will now need.”
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