"Lack of consultation and informed consent"

Mid-2020, I had 2 ADF operations on my right arm at Derby District Hospital. Prior to the procedure, I had a consultation with the anaesthetist and surgeon. I explained to the surgeon that I was only getting the fistula done because it was a requirement for getting a shoulder operation. I explained I had no intention of having haemodialysis as I planned on utilising PD. I also explained why I wanted the fistula in my right arm as my left had well-developed veins which I used monthly for blood tests.

I was told by the surgeon that the 1st AVF may not be successful and a 2nd attempt further up the arm may be required. As it turned out the 1st attempt was unsuccessful due to calcification of the veins.

I was wheeled out of the theatre to a waiting area with my right arm completely numb and being under the influence of whatever anaesthesia I was given. I fell asleep on the gurney. Later on, I was awakened by the anaesthetist with a form to sign. I asked what it was for and was informed I needed to sign it so the surgeon would be paid. I signed this form but with hindsight, I realise I was in no fit mental state to do so.

I was never told what was going to take place, for if I had of been informed of the complication of the procedure which was to follow, I would have declined. Going through the 2nd procedure was traumatic with the anaesthetist reassuring me that it would be okay. When the procedure was finished I heard the surgeon say that they didn’t know why I wanted the fistula in my right arm in a tone that gave me the impression that it was my fault the operation didn’t go as planned. Later when I was told that a further operation was needed to bring the vein to the surface, I told whoever it was informing me that it was never going to happen.

As for the stitching on the op site, in my opinion, I’ve seen potato sacks sewn up neater.

Post the operation, I have suffered chronic pain in my right bicep and blotching of the skin covering the bicep. I have also lost strength in the bicep. After strenuous use of my right arm, the blotching is more profound. Sometimes when I wake, my right lower arm and hand are numb. It takes about 3 mins to get the circulation going with severe tingling in my fingers. I can no longer lift objects above waist level with my right arm which has impeded me going about my activities. Laying on my back with both arms outstretched over my head, my right arm is too weak to bring it back over without the assistance of my left arm. To say that I am furious of how things have evolved would be an understatement.