Case Study: Delay in Treating a Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Stroke in a Young Woman

We acted for a young woman who suffered a life-changing brain injury following a failure by two hospitals to correctly diagnose and treat a cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

At just 23 years old, our client had already shown remarkable resilience, having already undergone treatment for leukaemia. Shortly after beginning her fourth cycle of chemotherapy, she developed worsening headaches and was admitted to hospital as an emergency. Her symptoms were incorrectly attributed to chemotherapy side effects. Although a CT scan was performed, it was not formally reported and was considered to show no acute abnormality. She was discharged without further investigation.

Later the same day, after collapsing at home and experiencing further deterioration, she was taken by ambulance to a second hospital. Imaging was misinterpreted as showing traumatic bleeding, and conservative management was recommended. Further scans were again incorrectly read, and urgent specialist intervention was not arranged.

It was only after a later review of the imaging that the correct diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis was identified. By that stage, our client’s condition had significantly worsened. She had suffered an intracerebral haemorrhage, reduced consciousness and ultimately a dense left-sided hemiplegia. Although she made some recovery, she was left with permanent neurological deficits and cognitive impairment as a result of the avoidable delay in treatment.

Our Approach

This was a complex, multi-defendant clinical negligence claim involving detailed neuroradiology, oncology and neurology evidence. From the outset, we took a careful and structured approach, ensuring that both liability and the long-term consequences of the brain injury were properly investigated.

As the case progressed, it became clear that our client’s cognitive impairment affected her ability to manage litigation. We took immediate steps to protect her interests, securing the appointment of her mother as a Litigation Friend to ensure decisions were made in her best interests. This required careful handling, sensitivity and clear communication with the family at every stage.

Proceedings were issued and, following service of expert evidence, one of the Defendant hospitals admitted breach of duty. We successfully secured interim payments to meet our client’s immediate needs, providing financial stability while the claim continued. The case proceeded through formal case management and joint expert discussions to narrow the issues.

Following further medical evidence confirming that our client had regained litigation capacity with appropriate support, we arranged a Joint Settlement Meeting. Through detailed preparation and robust negotiation, we achieved a six-figured settlement that reflected the seriousness of her permanent neurological and cognitive injuries.

Supporting a Vulnerable Client

Brain injury claims require not only technical legal expertise but also a compassionate and supportive approach. Throughout this case, we worked closely with our client and her family, ensuring they understood each stage of the process and felt supported during an exceptionally difficult period.

Our experience in complex neurological negligence claims, multi-party litigation and capacity issues enabled us to secure early admissions, obtain interim funding and achieve a resolution that recognised the long-term impact of the avoidable injury.

We are committed to representing vulnerable clients with sensitivity and determination, combining specialist medical knowledge with a clear litigation strategy to achieve the best possible outcomes.