Woman loses symphysiotomy action

A High Court judge has rejected a claim by a 76-year old woman that an unnecessary symphysiotomy was performed on her 12 days before the birth of her first baby at a Dublin hospital in 1963.

The case was regarded as a test case for those suing over symphysiotomies, a procedure which involved breaking the pelvis.

The woman was in court with dozens of supporters when Mr Justice Kevin Cross dismissed her claim, heard over 15 days. Liability for legal costs will be decided later.