A family have told of their sadness after what they called "the avoidable and premature death" of their mother.
A jury returned a verdict of medical misadventure contributed to by neglect following the death of 79-year-old Jeanne Morrissey after a routine examination.
Mrs Morrissey, of Chignal Road, Chelmsford, suffered swelling and breathing problems when discharged after a thyroid biopsy.
During the four-day inquest, the jury heard how the neck procedure went ahead at Chelmsford and Essex Breast Clinic on September 5, 2002, despite nurses's initial reluctance to take part and the consultant surgeon's admission the location was "not ideal".
The procedure was carried out by newly-appointed consultant surgeon Reginald Inwang, who had 12 years experience and an interest in thyroids.
Mrs Morrissey was discharged but returned following breathing problems.
Mr Inwang examined her and sent for an ambulance.
She was rushed to Broomfield Hospital's accident and emergency but died after her breathing problems got worse.
Mrs Morrissey's son Alan Coulthard said the family were relieved the matter had now come to an end.
"We're very sad to finally find out here today that someone very dear to us was taken away prematurely," he added.
But he said they recognised some people worked with "dedication and passion" to try and save her life.
A spokeswoman for Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust, which runs Chelmsford and Essex Breast Clinic, said an internal investigation had already been carried out.
She added: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with Mrs Morrissey's family."
Published Monday January 19, 2004
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