Blunt Episiotomy Claims
If you have suffered health complications because of a blunt episiotomy, you could be entitled to claim compensation for the pain and suffering you have been caused. To find out more, you need to speak to a medical negligence solicitor without delay.
How is an episiotomy performed?
An episiotomy is a cut made to the perineum in order to help the delivery of a baby. It is not carried out by way of routine; medical professionals will only decide to perform one if there is a clinical need to do so, such as to assist an instrumental birth.
If an episiotomy is needed, local anaesthetic will be applied to vaginal area, or if an epidural is in situ the dose will be topped up. A doctor or midwife will then use a pair of scissors to cut the perineum, starting at the back of the vagina and directing the incision downs and to one side. This is diagonal cut is called mediolateral episiotomy and is widely considered to be the best way to perform an episiotomy. After the baby has been delivered, a doctor or midwife should suture the wound together, while an examination to identify any further damage to the perineum and sphincter should also be carried out.
What happens if the scissors are blunt?
If a pair of scissors is not sharp enough, the length of the episiotomy may be inadequate and the incision might be ragged. This will have two further implications:
- If the episiotomy if not long enough, it will extend of its own accord during the course of delivery. This will increase the likelihood of significant perineal trauma occurring, potentially involving the anal sphincter.
- If the incision is ragged, the repair of the episiotomy will not be straightforward. The risk of poor alignment of the vaginal tissues and scar formation is probable, therefore hindering the episiotomy wound from healing.
Both these complications will lead to a series of health problems for a woman, with complaints such as painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia), urinary incontinence and incontinence of flatus and faeces all a very real possibility.
Does a blunt episiotomy amount to medical negligence?
It is the responsibility of the hospital Trust to ensure that sharp scissors are sharpened on a regular basis. If a pair of scissors is found to be blunt, a second pair should be obtained even if it requires opening a second full delivery pack. Therefore a blunt episiotomy should not happen. The only possible exception to the rule is if an episiotomy needs to be performed by way of emergency.
If you believe you have been the victim of a blunt episiotomy, you need to speak to a medical negligence solicitor about the care you received during your delivery. This is because you may have been subject to a substandard level of medical treatment. If so, you will be entitled to claim compensation for the injuries you have sustained.
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Early legal assistance can be vital so please contact us if you would like to discuss your situation. Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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