Colchester Hospital baby died after failed forceps delivery Published duration 27 June 2013

A baby died from a brain-bleed after his skull was fractured during a failed forceps delivery, an inquest has heard.

Frank Gamble died in April 2012 soon after his Caesarean section birth following three attempts at forceps, the hearing was told.

Consultant Prof Mohammed Khaled, who oversaw the delivery, is now on restricted duties at Colchester General Hospital.

The inquest verdict from County Hall in Chelmsford, will be given next week.

Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray, was told by Prof Khaled the baby's head was in a rotated position causing the forceps to unlock.

Heartbeat 'was lost'

He said it meant a C-section had to be carried out as a last resort, the inquest, which was attended by Frank's father John, was told.

Independent expert Dr Jeremy Brockelsby said Prof Khaled should have had the competencies to deliver the baby by forceps and either a poor technique or excessive force was used.

He said skull fractures were rare and Frank's parents did not receive the standard of care they were entitled to.

Midwife Tamera Aberthart-Briggs said she was worried for the mother during the delivery and the baby's heartbeat was lost after the third failed attempt to use forceps.

She told the inquest the evening would stay with her "forever".