A hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure in which the uterus (womb) is removed. It is often carried out to treat conditions such as heavy periods, fibroids, endometriosis, or cancer. While it’s a common operation, mistakes before, during, or after a hysterectomy can lead to serious health problems. In some cases, these mistakes amount to medical negligence.
What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy involves removing the uterus, meaning the patient can no longer become pregnant. Depending on the medical condition being treated, it may also involve the removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and cervix.
There are several types of hysterectomy:
- Total hysterectomy: The womb and cervix are removed
- Subtotal hysterectomy: The womb is removed, but the cervix is left in place
- Radical hysterectomy: The womb, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissues are removed (usually for cancer)
- Hysterectomy with oophorectomy: Includes removal of the ovaries
Surgical approaches include:
- Abdominal hysterectomy: Through a cut in the abdomen
- Vaginal hysterectomy: Through the vagina
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) hysterectomy: Using small incisions and a camera
What Is Medical Negligence in a Hysterectomy?
Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to deliver care that meets the accepted standard, resulting in avoidable harm. In hysterectomy cases, negligence can happen during:
Diagnosis and Consent
- Failing to explore non-surgical options first
- Not fully explaining risks, alternatives, and consequences (such as early menopause or infertility)
- Performing the surgery without informed consent
Surgical Errors:
- Accidental damage to nearby organs, such as the bladder, bowel, or ureters
- Excessive bleeding due to poor technique or missed arteries
- Leaving surgical instruments inside the patient
- Poor wound closure leading to infection or hernias
Post-operative Failures:
- Failing to identify and treat infections
- Ignoring signs of internal bleeding or complications
- Inadequate pain management or follow-up care
- Early discharge without proper recovery checks
Consequences of Negligent Hysterectomy
Errors during or after a hysterectomy can have life-altering effects, including:
- Chronic pain or long-term pelvic issues
- Incontinence or bladder/bowel dysfunction
- Infection or sepsis
- Emotional distress, especially if fertility is lost unexpectedly
- Additional surgeries to correct mistakes
- In rare cases, life-threatening complication
How to Spot Medical Negligence After a Hysterectomy
It can be difficult to tell whether your outcome was just an unfortunate complication or a sign of negligent care. Ask yourself the following:
- Did the doctor explain all treatment options before surgery?
- Were you rushed into surgery without fully understanding the consequences?
- Did you experience unexpected complications that were not managed promptly?
- Did something feel “off” about your care, such as poor communication or long delays?
- Have you had to undergo more procedures due to a mistake made during your hysterectomy?
Do I Have a Medical Negligence Claim?
You may have a valid claim if:
- A medical professional breached their duty of care
- That breach caused avoidable harm
- You have suffered physical, emotional, or financial loss as a result
Examples of Hysterectomy Negligence Claims
While every case is different, here are a few examples of hysterectomy-related claims we’ve seen in the UK:
- A patient was not told she would enter early menopause due to ovary removal and wasn’t offered hormone replacement therapy. She developed severe symptoms and had to stop working.
- A surgeon accidentally cut the ureter (the tube between the kidney and bladder), leading to long-term kidney damage.
- A post-op infection was missed during discharge, leading to sepsis and ICU admission.
Why Choose Tomlin and Partners?
We are a boutique law firm that focuses exclusively on helping victims of medical negligence. Our solicitors have years of experience dealing with complex surgical cases and a strong track record of securing fair compensation for our clients.
Our team at Tomlin and Partners can assess your situation with sensitivity and clarity. We handle all cases on a no win no fee basis, meaning there’s no upfront cost or financial risk to you.