A man is calling for lessons to be learned after having to have his leg amputated more than five years after medics failed to refer him for further tests. Len Bruno, 71, was referred to Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend after he visited a GP complaining of pain in his right big toe and that his right foot was turning black.
He had an aneurysm behind both knee joints but was told by doctors that he probably had a small clot in his right leg that had resolved itself. Over the coming years, however, Len, of Aberavon, Port Talbot, developed pain, including cramps, in his left leg. The dad-of-one and granddad-of-four was referred by a GP to hospital for further tests. These confirmed he had aneurysms measuring 3.6cm and 3.4cm behind his left and right knees respectively, which were restricting blood flow.
A treatment plan was due to be drawn up. But, Len, a former steeplejack, continued to experience pain. Around two months after the aneurysms were confirmed he went to hospital again, only to receive the devastating news from surgeons that his left leg was unsalvageable because of reduced blood flow. You can get more Bridgend and Port Talbot news and other story updates straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletters here.
