HSE Apologises For Surgical Errors: Admits Liability in High Court Case

by | Oct 29, 2010

The Health Services Executive (HSE) has apologised in the High Court for surgical errors that lead to the death of Michael Devane of Killarney, County Kerry. Mr. Devane died in October 2007 after broken wrist surgery in Kerry General Hospital, Tralee, County Kerry.  Devane’s airways became blocked while under general anaesthetic and he was unable to breath, resulting in brain injuries and death nine days after the operation.
At the High Court, Ms Justice Maureen Clark heard that the family of the deceased had claimed the HSE had failed in its duty of care by proceeding with the operation when it was known that no recovery room was available and subsequently failed to monitor the post-operative effects of the anaesthetic.
In its apology, the HSE said it “wishes to apologise sincerely to Mrs Deborah Devane and the entire Devane family for the various failings in the treatment and care afforded to Michael by Kerry General Hospital in Tralee on September 27 and the days afterwards.” The HSE acknowledged that “nothing can make up to the Devane family for the tragic loss of Michael who was a devoted and dedicated father and family member.” 
Ms Justice Maureen Clark was informed that the HSE admitted liability, actions had been settled and the case was before the courts for assessment only. No details of the settlement were disclosed in open court. 

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