A SMOKER died when her heart failed following an operation to improve circulation in her legs.

Although the major operation was technically successful, Inga Pritchard, 70, of Lydgate, Burnley, died from heart disease with the operation being a significant precipitating factor, an inquest was told.

"I felt the heart disease was due to smoking," said Home Office pathologist Dr William Lawler.

East Lancashire Coroner David Smith commented: "It is another example of the dangers of smoking."

Consultant vascular and general surgeon Mr Haytham Al-Khaffaf said Mrs Pritchard had narrowing of the arteries in her legs and the poor circulation was resulting in ulcers on her feet.

Eventually the only real option was surgery.

He explained to her that the major operation involved a 10 per cent risk of death and that she was at higher risk because of her heart.

She asked for the operation to be performed as soon as possible and it took place on June 13. She returned to the intensive care unit which was normal.

The anaesthetist gave him the impression it would be all right for her to go back on to the ward and she was doing reasonably well.

Unfortunately, on the June 15 there was a sudden drop in blood pressure.

She was returned to intensive care but could not be resuscitated.

Recording a verdict of misadventure, the coroner said there was no criticism whatsoever of the surgeon or the hospital.