Woman's breast cut off by mistake
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A WOMAN who had a breast cut off by mistake after a wrong cancer diagnosis has started legal proceedings.
The hospital where the unnecessary mastectomy operation took place confirmed last night that a mistaken diagnosis had been made at another hospital.
Huw Llewellyn-Morgan, solicitor for the woman - who is 42 and lives in Swansea - said last night: 'I have been instructed by a client who underwent a mastectomy believed unnecessary. Notice has been given to the relevant authorities.'
Two hospitals were involved in the unnamed woman's treatment: the Morriston Hospital where she was diagnosed and the Singleton Hospital where the surgery took place, both National Health Service trusts in Swansea.
David Williams, chief executive of the Singleton Hospital, said last night that as the matter had been made public, 'regretfully, I have to confirm that a diagnosis of breast cancer was erroneously made at a different general hospital . . .
'Singleton Hospital was used as the location for surgery because we remained open to such urgent cases at a time when there had been bed shortages elsewhere.'
At the Morriston Hospital Ysbyty Treforys NHS Trust, Mike Naylor, chief executive designate, said that inquiries had started. 'This matter gives rise to very serious concern and we have initiated an internal inquiry to clarify the facts in relation to this trust.'
He said it was not appropriate to make any further comment as 'we believe the matter is the subject of legal action potentially involving more than one party.'
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments