OAP, 92, died after choking on sprout

A PENSIONER died after choking on a Brussels sprout which he was fed by a healthcare support worker while in hospital.

James Christopher Dingsdale went into cardiac arrest after eating the vegetable on December 20.

The 92-year-old, of St David’s Close, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, underwent a throat examination at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and seemed to initially respond well.

But his health declined and he died on December 22.

An inquest opening at Ruthin County Hall yesterday heard that the retired company inspector had a history of medical conditions including asthma, diabetes and osteoporosis and was admitted to hospital following a fall on December 12.

Coroner for North Wales east and central John Gittins said: “Circumstances... indicate that whilst the patient was being fed by a healthcare support worker on December 20, there was an incident which resulted in a cardiac arrest call being put out.”

Medics attended and a laryngoscopy (examination of the throat) was carried out.

It showed a “mashed-up Brussels sprout occluding the glottic opening”.

“Unfortunately, subsequently, due to his frailty, he declined and passed away,” Mr Gittins added.

In a report to the coroner, a doctor said it was his belief that Mr Dingsdale died as a result of cardiac arrest due to choking on a mashed-up Brussels sprout.

A full inquest will be held to establish all the facts at a date yet to be fixed.