Gordon Harry Renfrew · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On the 14th June 2022, I commenced an investigation into the death of Gordon Harry Renfrew. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on the 28th June 2023

The conclusion of the inquest was a Narrative as follows:

Gordon Renfrew died on the 14th June 2022 at Queens Medical Centre Nottingham, from extensive cerebral oedema with mass effect leading to brain herniation. This was caused by a large cerebral infarction, occurring early morning on the 7th June 2022, and involving the anterior, middle and posterior lobes of the left cerebral hemisphere.

The infarction was caused by a large occlusion in the left internal carotid artery in the neck, extending to the bifurcation of the internal carotid artery into the anterior and middle cerebral arteries. The occlusion was caused by arterial dissection and clot/thrombus at this site, likely caused by a combination of weakness in the arterial vessel wall from Fibromuscular Dysplasia, and a neck hyperextension injury sustained when diving from a high board on the 31st May 2022

A Mechanical Thrombectomy was undertaken on the 7th June 22, to try and remove the clot. This was partially successful, but there remained occlusion of the middle cerebral artery, with subsequent additional re-occlusion of the internal carotid artery post procedure.

A Decompression Craniectomy was undertaken on the 10th June 2022, to try and reduce the effect of the severe cerebral oedema, caused by the large infarct

The NICE guidance on Decompression Craniectomy after stroke, was not followed. There should have been detailed, early and repeated discussion with the family as to timing of the Decompression Craniectomy, on the 8th and 9th June 2022. Had this occurred it is very likely that the procedure would have been performed at an earlier time, although it is not possible to say, on a balance of probability, that this would have led to Gordon surviving what was a very severe and extensive stroke.

Gordon died on the 14th June 2022, at Queens Medical Centre (QMC), Nottingham, after a short admission. He had been transferred to QMC, from the Royal Derby Hospital for further management of a severe and extensive stroke. Detailed findings as to how he came by his death are described within a written Determination dated 28.6.23, appended to this report

• There is limited evidence to date of improved communication, and a stronger working relationship, between the stroke team and the neurosurgical team at the Trust

• There is limited evidence to date of the Stroke team having a clear understanding of the NICE guidance regarding Decompression Craniectomy, specifically the importance of detailed careful monitoring post stroke, with clarity about referral criteria to Neurosurgery. The planned Standard Operating Procedure, which may set out this clarity is not yet finalised.

• There are currently limited opportunities for joint case discussion and learning between the Stroke and Neurosurgical teams. The Interventional Neuroradiologists could of course also usefully participate in such Educational opportunities - I note it was ████████, (Consultant in Interventional Neuroradiology) rather than the Stroke team, who asked that Gordon was reviewed by the Neurosurgical team on the early evening of the 7th June 2022

I am not reassured that necessary actions to address these serious issues identified are in place.