Case Study: November 2025
In November 2025 Paul Kelly of Cian O’Carroll Solicitors successfully settled a complex medical negligence case arising from the delivery of twins at Cork University Maternity Hospital. The case resolved at mediation for a substantial six-figure sum shortly before the scheduled High Court trial.
Our client had conceived following fertility treatment and was carrying monochorionic diamniotic twins, a pregnancy recognised as carrying increased risks for both mother and babies. She also had a significant history of pelvic adhesions and abdominal surgery, making any emergency delivery potentially more complex.
Our client’s case maintained that there was a failure to ensure appropriate Consultant Obstetrician involvement during both the antenatal period and labour. It was further alleged that concerns regarding the wellbeing of one of the twins during labour were not acted upon promptly and that an earlier emergency caesarean section should have been performed.
A central aspect of the claim concerned the management of the eventual emergency caesarean section. Given the known complexity of the surgery and the extensive pelvic adhesions identified during the procedure, it was alleged that the operation should have been performed by a Consultant Obstetrician rather than a doctor in training.
During the caesarean section, our client suffered a significant bladder injury. The bladder tear required immediate repair by a Consultant Urologist and resulted in prolonged catheterisation, blood transfusions and a difficult post-operative recovery.
The impact of these events extended well beyond the initial surgery. Our client developed ongoing urinary symptoms which affected her daily life and quality of life. She also suffered significant psychological trauma arising from the circumstances of the delivery and the critical condition of one of her newborn twins following birth.
The case was supported by leading independent obstetric, midwifery and psychiatric experts from the United Kingdom. Following extensive preparation and exchange of expert evidence, it proved possible to secure a substantial six-figure settlement shortly before the matter was due to proceed to trial.
While no legal outcome can undo the physical and emotional consequences of such an experience, the settlement provides recognition of the harm suffered and secures important support for our client and her family into the future.