Great Ormond Street Hospital investigation after patients treated with “faulty” surgical glue

The hospital is investigating after patients were treated with “faulty” surgical glue.  Two of five children treated with the affected batches of Histoacryl glue at the hospital later died.

A recall notice for some of the batches was issued earlier this year after they were found to harden slower than expected.  The hospital have said that it may have caused some instances of harm, but was unlikely “to be the sole or main factor”.

The hospital said in a statement: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the families of the children affected.

“The investigation found that whilst the passage of glue through the intended vessel may have been contributory in some instances of harm, it was unlikely to be the sole or main factor.

“Both patients who died had serious and complex medical conditions and the procedure to correct these always carries a high degree of risk, which is discussed extensively with the families before any treatment takes place.”

According to a report to a public board meeting last month, titled “Faulty batch of Histoacryl glue potentially impacting patient treatment outcomes”, the glue has been used for over 30 years in the endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations – a tangle of blood vessels with abnormal connections between arteries and veins.

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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