Boy, 9, settles against Rotunda over alleged failure to diagnose pregnancy complication

Ricci Meehan’s mother appealed in court to hospitals and maternity units to now routinely screen at the 20-week scan for Vasa praevia

Maria Meehan (left), with her partner Patrick Brady outside the Four Courts on Wednesday. “We love Rici to bits. Hopefully, this case will bring changes,” Ms Meehan said. Picture: Collins Courts

A nine-year-old boy who sued, claiming a rare pregnancy complication was allegedly not diagnosed when his mother had an ultrasound scan in hospital, has settled a High Court action with a €1.5 million interim payout.

Ricci Meehan’s mother in court appealed to hospitals and maternity units to now routinely screen at the 20-week scan for Vasa praevia a rare complication that can occur during pregnancy. Vasa praevia is where some of the blood vessels that connect the umbilical cord lie over or near the entrance to the birth canal.