A 60 year old lady underwent a total hip replacement but was left with a leg length discrepancy of over 2cm and injury to her sciatic nerve and “drop foot”. As a result she required a tendon transfer operation, but continued to have restricted mobility with a walking distance of approximately 100 yards.

She had to take early retirement and lost earnings and pension entitlements as a result. Ongoing care, assistance and orthotics were costs were likely to be incurred. Liability was eventually admitted by the United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust and the case was settled for £215,000.