A Kerry man, Christopher O’Driscoll, has initiated a legal action in the High Court, claiming that a failure to diagnose his stroke led to his current state of locked-in syndrome. O’Driscoll, who is paralysed from the neck down and unable to speak, participated in the proceedings via video link from his nursing home.
Background on Christopher O’Driscoll
The 39-year-old construction worker is from Camp, County Kerry. On New Year’s Day 2023, O’Driscoll experienced a seizure at home, prompting an ambulance call. He suffered a second seizure en route to University Hospital Kerry, where he was intubated upon arrival.
Legal Claims Against Global Diagnostics and the HSE
O’Driscoll has sued Global Diagnostics (Ireland) Ltd, which provided radiology services at the hospital, and the Health Service Executive (HSE). The court claims indicate a failure to properly diagnose his stroke after his initial collapse and a CT scan. Specifically, it is alleged that the CT scan report inaccurately stated the main artery in the brain was clear of blockages.
- Claimed Failures:
- Misdiagnosis of stroke severity.
- Denied life-saving treatment options, including thrombolysis.
- Failure to prevent the advancement of neurological damage.
Court Proceedings and Mediation Attempts
The case has faced several adjournments, with attempts at mediation proving unsuccessful. Ms. Justice Leonie Reynolds expressed her frustration over the lack of progress and encouraged both parties to pursue potential resolutions. The hearing for updates is set for Thursday afternoon.
Should the trial proceed, it is anticipated to last six weeks, allowing for a comprehensive examination of the events surrounding O’Driscoll’s medical treatment.
Key Dates and Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2023 | O’Driscoll suffers seizure at home. |
| January 1, 2023 | CT scan performed at University Hospital Kerry. |
| January 3, 2023 | Transferred to a different hospital for an MRI. |
| January 5, 2023 | Diagnosis of stroke and locked-in syndrome confirmed. |
The ongoing legal battle highlights the critical issues surrounding timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, underscoring the profound implications of medical errors.
