Claiming Compensation for Surgical Negligence
Substandard surgical care can cause life-changing injuries to the patient and may justify a claim for compensation.
Thousands of surgical procedures take place every day in the UK, the vast majority of them concluding successfully. Occasionally, however, something goes wrong and the patient is left with life-changing complications. In such circumstances, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the pain, suffering and financial losses which would not have occurred but for the negligent medical care.
Unnecessary surgery
Here at Glynns we have occasionally been called upon to investigate the problems caused when a patient has been advised to undergo surgery which was not, in fact, necessary. The trauma of such an occurrence alone is significant but, where the patient is left with life-changing physical and emotional problems, it may justify a claim for compensation.
Surgical errors
Unfortunately, errors do occasionally occur during a surgical procure.
It may be that a restricted field of vision or lack of care leads to the perforation of the bowel, putting the patient at risk of developing abdominal infection and sepsis.
It may be that a 'never event' occurs during surgery such as carrying out a procedure to the wrong body part or patient, or that an item of surgical equipment is mistakenly left inside the patient at the end of the procedure. The long-term implications of such an action can be dramatic and justify a compensation claim.
Although mistakes do occur, a failure by medical professionals to recognise that an error has occurred and to address the problem may be regarded as negligent.
Post-operative infection
Patients should be assessed for their infection risk prior to surgery and, where necessary, prophylactic antibiotics should be administered to minimise the risk of infection.
If this does not occur and the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome due to a post-operative infection, it may be appropriate to make a claim for the patient's pain and financial losses.
Delays in surgery
A failure to recognise the urgent need for surgery for some conditions may also be regarded as negligent.
For example, both cauda equina syndrome and necrotising fasciitis require surgery as a matter of emergency and a delay in arranging for surgery to be carried out can cause a catastrophic patient outcome.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of a significant medical failing in surgical care, contact Glynns Solicitors.
We are specialists in medical negligence compensation and one of our team of experienced lawyers will be very happy to discuss your situation and advise you as to the best way forward.
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 complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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