Mater apologises for man left brain damaged after routine bypass op

The Mater Hospital apologised in the High Court to a taxi man who has been left brain damaged after undergoing a routine heart bypass operation five years ago.

Father of four Martin Byrne was 48 years of age when he suffered a heart attack after pacing wires were removed five days after his operation.

His counsel, Liam Reidy, told the High Court Mr Byrne had a heart attack and his heart stopped for 15 minutes which caused profound brain damage. Thirteen days later on Christmas morning 2010, Mr Byrne’s wife and children were told he had a significant and profound injury.