MOM OF FIVE WINS LAWSUIT AGAINST STATE

A mother of five who developed several medical complications, resulting from a botched hysterectomy, won her lawsuit filed against the Northwest Regional Health Authority yesterday.

In an oral judgment handed down in the San Fernando Supreme Court, Justice Geoffrey Henderson found that the State was liable in the case, since “there was breach in the standard of care of the patient and I hold that the defendant is negligent is this regard”.

Damages, including compensation for medical costs, will be assessed on Thursday.

The suit was brought by Indra Ragoo, who underwent a hysterectomy in 2001 at the Mt Hope Women’s Hospital.

Ragoo developed a condition known as vesico vaginal fistula, an abnormal connection between the urinary tract and the vagina.

Ragoo, who was 40 years old at the time of the surgery, gave a detailed account of her suffering over the years, and her treatment by various doctors.

She stated in court documents that despite recent surgery to correct the medical problems, she continues to suffer terribly.

Ragoo’s suit was filed by Robin Ramoutar and Shawn Roopnarine instructed by Helen Lochan.

The State was represented by Robin Otway and Kern Saney.

Extracted From: Trinidad Express Newspaper
Published on May 18, 2010