Case Study: January 2026
Paul Kelly of Cian O’Carroll Solicitors has successfully settled a complex medical negligence claim arising from an avoidable leg amputation at University Hospital Waterford. The case settled for €1.75 million.
Our client attended hospital suffering from critical limb ischaemia, a serious vascular condition caused by a severe reduction in blood flow to the leg. The condition is a medical emergency because delays in treatment can result in irreversible tissue damage, amputation and even death.
Our client’s case maintained that despite clear signs of critical limb ischaemia, there were prolonged and unacceptable delays in investigating and treating his condition. Over a period of more than six months, he experienced severe and worsening pain, repeated hospital admissions and a significant deterioration in his condition.
The case was supported by a team of leading independent medical experts, including specialists in vascular surgery, rehabilitation medicine, pain medicine, prosthetics, orthopaedics, psychiatry, nursing care and occupational therapy.
The HSE ultimately admitted that there had been a failure to deal with our client’s diagnosis of critical limb ischaemia in an expeditious and urgent manner and that this failure caused the necessity for a through-knee amputation of his left leg.
The consequences for our client were devastating. Prior to these events, he worked in a busy trade and led an active and independent life. Following the amputation, he required a prosthetic limb, extensive rehabilitation and ongoing medical treatment. As with so many who suffer amputation, he continues to experience chronic pain, phantom limb pain, mobility difficulties and significant restrictions in his day-to-day activities.
As part of the resolution of the claim, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital wrote an apology to our client, stating:
“On behalf of the hospital, I wish to apologise unreservedly for the failings in your care. I acknowledge the significant and severe impact this has had on you. I wish you the very best as you continue to navigate the challenges you face.”
The €1.75 million settlement will help provide our client with the lifelong medical treatment, specialist prosthetic care, rehabilitation, supports and assistance he requires into the future.
While no settlement can restore what was lost, the outcome provides recognition of the harm suffered and an acknowledgement that this amputation should never have happened.