Contraceptive Implant Removal Injury

  • Outcome: Settlement [$650,000 incl. costs]
  • Court: Supreme Court of WA
  • Defendant: Private GP

The plaintiff suffered severe and permanent nerve damage following a routine contraceptive implant removal procedure performed at a medical clinic in May 2016.

The Circumstances

The plaintiff attended a medical clinic to have a contraceptive implant removed from her upper arm. Implant removal is typically a straightforward procedure performed under local anaesthetic through a small incision in the skin.

However, during the procedure the plaintiff experienced immediate and severe nerve pain in her arm. Medical investigations later confirmed that the procedure had resulted in a laceration of the ulnar nerve, one of the major nerves supplying the forearm and hand.

Serious and Lasting Injuries

The nerve injury led to the development of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and ongoing functional impairment affecting the plaintiff’s arm and hand. She continues to suffer from chronic pain, reduced strength and restricted movement in her upper limb.

Despite undergoing two surgical procedures in an attempt to improve the nerve damage, there has been no meaningful improvement in her condition. Medical experts consider her prognosis to be poor, with permanent impairment likely to remain.

As a result of the injury, the plainitff has required strong pain medication and ongoing medical treatment. The injury has significantly affected her ability to work and perform everyday tasks.

Psychological and Financial Impact

Beyond the physical injury, the plaintiff developed significant psychological symptoms, including major depressive disorder, linked to her chronic pain and physical limitations.

The injury also affected her employment. Prior to the incident she worked as a computer technician, but the permanent impairment in her arm has left her unable to perform the duties required in her profession.

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