A Kerry man has initiated a High Court lawsuit regarding a failure to diagnose his stroke, which resulted in severe locked-in syndrome. Christopher O’Driscoll, aged 39, from Camp, County Kerry, is currently tetraplegic and unable to speak. He participated in the court proceedings via video link from his nursing home.
Kerry Man with Locked-In Syndrome Takes Legal Action
O’Driscoll is suing Global Diagnostics (Ireland) Ltd, which provided radiology services at University Hospital Kerry at the time. The case also involves the Health Service Executive (HSE), which is alleged to be responsible for the actions and omissions of Global Diagnostics.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on New Year’s Day 2023 when O’Driscoll experienced what appeared to be a seizure at home. An ambulance was summoned, and during transport to the hospital, he suffered a second seizure.
- Date of Incident: January 1, 2023
- Initial Diagnosis: CT scan performed at University Hospital Kerry
- Subsequent Treatment: Transferred to another hospital on January 3 for further evaluation
- MRI Findings: Diagnosed with a severe stroke and locked-in syndrome on January 5
Allegations Against Global Diagnostics
The lawsuit claims that the CT angiogram from January 1 incorrectly indicated that the primary artery in O’Driscoll’s brain was open and free of blockage. As a result, he allegedly did not receive timely treatment with thrombolysis, which may have prevented the severe progression of his neurological condition.
In response, Global Diagnostics contends that the severity of O’Driscoll’s stroke was such that any treatment would not have improved his prognosis. They deny responsibility for the worsening of his condition.
Mediation Efforts and Legal Proceedings
During a recent court session, Ms. Justice Leonie Reynolds noted the frustration of both parties regarding the lack of progress and urged them to consider mediation to resolve the issues. O’Driscoll’s counsel reported that earlier mediation attempts were unsuccessful, but both sides expressed their willingness to negotiate further.
The court plans to reconvene on the matter, and if the case proceeds, the trial is expected to last for six weeks. The outcome will be closely watched as it involves broader implications for medical diagnostics and patient care practices in Ireland.
