Compartment Syndrome Disability and Claiming Compensation for Negligence
If a patient suffers permanent and disabling problems due to negligent care of compartment syndrome, it might be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Medical negligence and compartment syndrome
If compartment syndrome is caused by negligent medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency and if symptoms are not noticed and diagnosed, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having been negligent in their standard of care.
Negligent cause of compartment syndrome
Compartment syndrome can develop due to a build-up of pressure in the muscle compartment. Increased pressure on the nerves or blood vessels within the compartment can cause permanent and disabling damage.
This process can occur during the course of extended surgery where the legs of the patient are raised. It would be normal procedure to ensure that an opportunity to relax the legs of the patient and thereby relieve pressure in the muscle compartment to prevent this outcome.
Negligent care of compartment syndrome
It is essential that the signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome are diagnosed as promptly as possible in order to trigger the surgery necessary to relieve the pressure in the compartment and prevent the patient form experiencing further damage.
If the nerves and blood vessels within a compartment are permanently damaged due to a delay in diagnosis and treatment, the patient may suffer disability and loss of nerve function.
Symptoms which might indicate that the patient is developing compartment syndrome would include intense pain, as well as tightness and tenderness in the muscle region. These symptoms would be particularly significant in a patient who had undergone extended surgery in the lithotomy position.
Claiming compensation
Loss of mobility or suffering from balance issues and other disorders associated with compartment syndrome can affect an individual's capacity to work.
If they suffer significant financial losses due to poor-quality medical care, a person is entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Specialist legal advice
Compensation claims for medical negligence are extremely complex and require the skills of a specialist solicitor.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, if you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of compartment syndrome due to substandard medical care.
However, remember that the law requires claims for compensation for medical negligence to be commenced within three years of the date of the alleged negligence so make sure you contact a solicitor promptly for the best advice.
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