Compensation for Negligent Sinus Surgery
Substandard sinus surgery can cause serious damage to the patient. Both sight loss and brain damage are possible. If the medical professional is considered to be responsible for this outcome, claiming compensation might be appropriate.
Sinus surgery
Sinus surgery sounds as if it should be a fairly straight-forward procedure to resolve sinusitis where the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed, causing a blockage. It is a common surgical procedure performed via the nostrils using an endoscope, and is usually highly successful.
However, the proximity of the sinuses to vital structures within the head means that the procedure carries significant risks.
Brain injury
Accidental damage during endoscopic sinus surgery can cause an injury to the brain or lead to a leak of cerebrospinal fluid.
Cerebrospinal fluid flows around the brain and a CSF leak can increase the risk of developing meningitis.
Damage to the brain itself is very rare but can impact on the functioning of the brain, causing problems such as reduction in cognitive processing.
Loss of sight
Reduction in visual function can also occur due to accidental damage during sinus surgery.
- The optic nerve may be damaged during the procedure which means that the visual messages from the retina at the back of the eye do not reach the brain, rendering the patient blind
- The orbit or cavity of the eye can become damaged, causing a blood clot which can also threaten the patient's sight
The loss of brain function or the loss of one's sight, partial or total, will have a significant impact on an individual's ability to work, drive and remain independent.
Consent
Although these risks are rare, the patient should be made aware of them and a failure to do so by medical professionals may be regarded as negligent.
Medical negligence
If damage to the eye or brain is caused during sinus surgery, the patient should seek legal advice.
If it is found that the relevant medical practitioner has been negligent in their undertaking of the surgery, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
A successful claim can provide compensation for both the past and future financial losses if the patient has become unable to work.
Furthermore, if they require support in everyday life, their compensation claim should also take this into account.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one have been affected by a significant injury during sinus surgery. Contact Glynns today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor about the suitability of making a compensation claim.
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