Investigation and inquest
On 13 October 2021 I commenced an investigation into the death of Alison June Dallow. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 20 July 2022. The conclusion of the inquest was the following Narrative:
Mrs Dallow fractured her Left Tibial Plateau following a fall. A brace reduced her mobility as did the fracture. She was not prescribed prophylaxis. Mrs Dallow died from the medical causes given. Mrs Dallow was diagnosed with Covid 19 shortly before her death.
Circumstances of the death
Alison June Dallow died from a Pulmonary Thromboembolism due to Deep Vein Thrombosis. She had restricted mobility following a fracture and fitting of a knee brace.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) It was unclear whether the clinical advice was to ‘toe touch’ or stay non- weight bearing.
(2) The current hospital policy in connection with reducing the risk of Venous Thromboembolism was unclear especially regarding outpatients who apparently account for the majority of fractures treated.
(3) Evidence of any information given to the patient was unavailable at the Inquest.