Cervical Myelopathy Diagnosis Delays and Medical Negligence
A delay in diagnosing cervical myelopathy can lead to a devastating outcome for the patient. It may also justify a claim for compensation for medical negligence.
What is cervical myelopathy?
Cervical myelopathy is the result of compression of the nerves in the cervical spine. This is the section of the spine to be found in the neck.
Loss of nerve function in this region can lead to a wide range of debilitating physical difficulties with the potential to render a patient dependent on a wheelchair.
Use of the hands can also become reduced, making it difficult to hold, pick up or manipulate items. Sensory losses or alterations can affect varying regions of the body.
The impact of a delay in diagnosis
Cervical myelopathy is generally a progressive condition, meaning that it worsens as time passes. Consequently, delays in diagnosis are likely to leave the patient suffering increasingly debilitating symptoms.
The possible long-term effect on mobility and manual dexterity can leave an individual unable to work and unable to function independently. They may struggle without some degree of personal care.
If such a life-changing and distressing outcome is due to negligent medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation, which would take into account any relevant financial losses.
Medical negligence
Although some of the symptoms of cervical myelopathy can have other physical causes, it is essential that this condition is considered as a possible diagnosis.
Key symptoms can include altered sensation in the hands such as tingling or loss of dexterity or power. Feeling unsteady on one's feet can also be an indicator of this condition as well as neck pain and additional sensory or function symptoms in the limbs. Symptoms are likely to be progressive, worsening or spreading over time.
A failure to consider this possible diagnosis is likely to lead to a delay in a referral for an MRI scan of the cervical spine which can identify if the nerves are being compressed.
If this delay contributes to the patient's poor long-term outcome, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Claiming compensation
Compensation claims for medical negligence are extremely complex and require the skills of a specialist lawyer who will be able to access the input of the best medical experts.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced solicitors.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of cervical myelopathy due to a delay in diagnosis or surgery, contact us to discuss your situation with a specialist in this field.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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