Man brain damaged after blood transfusion

Bacteria was found in blood given to the patient

A man who was left brain damaged after a contaminated blood transfusion has been awarded £300,000 in compensation.

Steven Legg, now 40, had a routine transfusion after an operation on his back at Swindon's Princess Margaret Hospital in July 1995.

But the blood, traced to a donor session at a clinic, was contaminated with bacteria.

The father-of-three suffered partial deafness, the amputation of several toes, scarring and brain injury, which affected his personality.

Due to the effects of the brain injury and depression, Mr Legg is living a very isolated existence within his own home

Solicitor Michael Berrett

The National Blood Authority carried out DNA and microbiological testing of the several blood bags used in the transfusion.

It was found the bacteria present in both bags were so closely related they could have only come from the same source.

Medical experts decided the most likely source of contamination was at the donor session.

This was the only time prior to setting up the infusion the bag was open.

Proceedings were issued in the High Court against the National Blood Authority on the grounds they had supplied blood that was defective.

The settlement of Mr Legg's claim came shortly before a two-week trial.

His solicitor, Michael Berrett, said: "Due to the effects of the brain injury and depression, Mr Legg is living a very isolated existence within his own home.

"He is unable to tolerate the noise and family arrangements necessary to cope with three teeenage boys at home.

Liability denied

"He suffers from headaches and nightmares.

"He is unable to drive and finds he has much reduced interest in life.

"He relies heavily on assistance from his wife."

Mr Legg had been admitted to hospital as a result of a lifting injury whilst working as a publican.

Despite making the pay out, the National Blood Authority has not admitted liability.

But spokesman Jim Moir said there had been lengthy investigations and more stringent antisceptic procedures were now in place.