Not an open and shut case

Published on 18/01/2013 00:00

UP to 16 objects, including a needle, compresses and surgical tape, were left in a man’s body after a cancer operation.

Banker Helmut Brecht went to see his doctor after his surgery scars failed to heal following the 2009 operation at the Henriettestift hospital in Hannover, Germany, his lawyer claimed yesterday.

The 77-year-old died last year and his family is seeking damages of €106,216 (£88,000).

But a hospital spokesman said the objects could not have been left in Mr Brecht’s body during the operation since it did not use any of the equipment allegedly found in him.