Inquest into the death of Phillip Graeme Abell

AI-generated summary

Phillip Graeme Abell, aged 51, died from stage 4 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with underlying cirrhosis and hepatitis C infection. Imprisoned at Woodford Correctional Centre, Mr Abell was diagnosed with infiltrative HCC in February 2023 after appropriate surveillance imaging. The cancer progressed rapidly with portal vein invasion, making surgical resection impossible. From June to August 2023, he experienced multiple acute episodes of hepatic encephalopathy requiring hospital admission to Caboolture Hospital. Pain management and palliative symptom control became increasingly challenging. The coroner concluded that appropriate, judicious medical care was provided, including proper surveillance imaging and monitoring in accordance with international guidelines. No medical deficiencies contributed to his death. One procedural issue was identified: his ex-partner (designated health attorney) was not consulted before withdrawing IV antibiotics and fluids during terminal decline, though this did not affect the outcome. The aggressive infiltrative nature of his HCC meant that earlier detection would not have altered management or prognosis.

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