A WOMAN who underwent a hernia operation without an anaesthetic will receive 12,000 euros in compensation from the ministry of health of the Comunidad Valenciana.

The patient, 66, was given an insufficient quantity of anaesthetic for her operation in March 2004, leaving her in excruciating pain.

As a result, she has been receiving medication via a psychiatrist and under the supervision of a psychologist.

She says she suffers regular nightmares, insomnia, terrifying flashbacks when she hears talk of hospitals or sees bright lights, is petrified of the thought of future operations or of being near medical centres.

The victim also suffers regular panic attacks that affect her daily life.

Although she has received a letter of apology from the surgeons who carried out her operation in an unnamed hospital in Valencia, she still took legal action as a result of the traumas she has since suffered.

The regional health authorities have been ordered to pay 12,000 euros in compensation.