Investigation and inquest
On 05/09/2014 I commenced an investigation into the death of Benjamin John William Bartle aged 71 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 18th June 2015. The conclusion of the inquest was that the deceased died from a recognised complication of surgery. The deceased was admitted to the University Hospital North Staffordshire, Stoke on Trent on the 6th August 2014 and underwent elective laparoscopic resection of his colon for early colon cancer. Post operatively he had problems with small bowel obstruction requiring a further laparotomy and release of adhesions. He had a pre-sacral collection drained on the 22nd August 2014. He developed an infection which did not respond to intravenous antibiotic treatment and suffered an acute cardiac event. He died at 4.30 pm on the 26th August 2014. The cause of death was septicaemia due to laparoscopic anterior resection for early colon cancer.
Circumstances of the death
See above.
The published report provides this section by reference to another part of the report.
Coroner’s concerns
1. The family perceived a lack of staff over the Bank Holiday weekend, Friday 22nd August to Monday 25th August which they felt led to delayed interventions for Mr Bartle.
2. The family perception was of poor nutritional support and pain control for Mr Bartle.
3. The family experienced poor communication from nursing staff.