Boy settles case for injuries sustained during birth

A seven year old boy who was catastrophically injured during his birth at Cavan General Hospital has settled his High Court action for an interim payment of €2.1 million.

Through his mother, Patrick, who is confined to a wheelchair and has no means of communicating, sued the HSE as a result of the circumstances of his birth in 2007 at Cavan General Hospital.

The court heard that on 20th July 2007 Patrick’s mother Mrs Brannigan was admitted to hospital and from 17.55pm a CTG trace showed signs of foetal distress. Counsel informed the court that at about 18.30 pm, the CTG trace was showing signs of being pathological but it was decided to commence syntocinaon. This is a drug that is used to speed up labour. Counsel went on to say that syntocinaon should never have been used when there are signs of foetal distress and a CTG trace is pathological. It was claimed that there was a failure to deliver the baby as quickly as possible once there were clear sign of foetal distress and it was also alleged that there was a failure to monitor the baby adequately while labour progressed. Senior Counsel for Patrick told the court how there was a catalogue of errors and Patrick was in a very poor condition after his delivery by emergency caesarean.

The Judge was told how Cavan General Hospital has admitted liability and apologised to Patrick and his parents.

The case settled for an interim payment of €2.1 million and will come before the courts again in three years’ times when the costs of Patrick’s future care needs will be assessed. Justice Cross approved the settlement and wished Patrick and his family well.