)
Introduction
An independent review is currently underway following a series of stillbirths at Mayo University Hospital (“MUH”).
Stillbirths at Mayo University Hospital
In 2023, MUH, a hospital managed by the Saolta University Healthcare Group, experienced seven stillbirths. Two of the stillbirths have prompted external reviews and according to the HSE, have met the definition of ‘serious reportable event’.
The remaining five stillbirths have led to internal reviews, all of which occurred in the last three months of 2023. While the HSE has not provided further details on the internal and external reviews, they have stated there are no 'commonalities' between the cases.
Portiuncula University Hospital Reviews
The reviews follow an external investigation into the delivery of nine babies at Portiuncula University Hospital (“PUH”), another hospital operated by the Saolta University Healthcare Group. These reviews come as there was a significantly higher number of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (“HIE”) cases at PUH compared to national and international averages during the same period.
What is Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy ("HIE")?
HIE is a critical medical condition that can lead to brain injury and may occur prior to, during, or shortly after birth. Learn more about HIE.
Read our Birth Injuries - Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Currently, information on the stillbirths at MUH remains limited. The reviews at both MUH and PUH have raised serious concerns and prompted calls for increased transparency, enabling clinicians and the public to better understand the extent of the issues and the steps needed to enhance maternity care.
Further Information
Read our prior related articles: External Review into Delivery of Nine Babies at Portiuncula Hospital and State Claims Agency Review: Critical Failures in Ireland’s Maternity Services
For further details or if you have any concerns about your child’s birth, please contact Avril Scally, Partner or Avril Carroll, Solicitor in our award-winning Medical Negligence & Personal Injury Team.