QB-2022-001544 - [2025] EWHC 2597 (KB)

The claim arises from the decision of the second defendant’s stroke consultant, Dr Metcalf, at the Norwich & Norfolk Hospital, not to offer Mr Hakmi thrombolysis to treat a stroke on 16 November 2016, which it is alleged has caused him serious disability. Mr Hakmi had already suffered a stroke on 26 September 2016 when he was treated with thrombolysis. He had made a good recovery and returned to work on 15 November 2016. Quantum has been agreed between the parties, subject to liability in the sum of £1,033,824, including interest to 28 days after judgment and gross of CRU.

Mr Hakmi is a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon who has been a consultant at the Lister Hospital, Stevenage since 2003. His achievements are fully set out in his witness statement but include a speciality in foot surgery and a leading role in the development of orthopaedic services within his Trust. He has also had an educational role attached to the University of Cambridge teaching both postgraduate and undergraduate students. It is fortunate that he has been able to develop that educational role since he suffered his stroke on 16 November 2016. He is now unable to carry out surgery.

The effect of the consequences of the stroke on Mr Hakmi was plain to see in the witness box when on several occasions he was visibly upset. It has had major consequences on his career, his financial security, his marriage and his family life. In my view, it has affected his sense of self-worth in ending his role in surgery at the comparatively young age of 51.