Negligent Nerve Injury after Joint Surgery
Orthopaedic surgery to the joints, such as a knee replacement or a hip replacement, is susceptible to unintentional local damage. The long-term impact of such negligence can, on occasion, be significant and may justify a claim for compensation.
The significance of nerves
Nerves connect from the brain and central nervous system to every part of the body, responding to both internal and external stimuli, and initiating the movement of the muscles. Amongst a wide variety of effects, damage to the nerves can impact on our ability to walk or use our arms and hands. It can reduce the control we have over our bladder and bowel. It can affect the quality of our vision.
During joint surgery, a nerve may become damaged due to incorrect positioning of the patient or extended pressure. It may become stretched or even inadvertently cut by a surgical implement.
Hip replacement negligence
During a hip replacement, the integrity of the femoral nerve is at risk. The femoral nerve travels from the spine, through the pelvic region to the legs, and plays an important role in an individual's mobility and limb sensation. As it passes through the pelvic region, it can be impacted by surgery to that area.
If the femoral nerve is damaged in some way during surgery, the patient may suffer partial or total loss of mobility or difficulties with weakness in the legs or loss of sensation in the legs.
Knee replacement nerve damage
The peroneal nerve contributes to the movement and flexing of the ankle and thus, to an individual's ability to walk. As it passes down the leg and through the knee, it is vulnerable to surgical damage.
A patient who has suffered nerve damage during joint surgery would hope for that damage to be repaired promptly and for there to be minimal long-term effect.
Where this does not or cannot happen, however, the patient may be left with debilitating symptoms for the rest of their life.
Claiming compensation
The long-term impact of a severe lower limb nerve injury following joint surgery may deprive an individual of their ability to work, to drive or even to remain independent.
Where this has occurred, a successful compensation claim may take into account the financial losses experienced by the patient such as loss of income or costs of care.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are facing significant on-going difficulties due to a nerve injury during orthopaedic surgery, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation. One of our team of experienced solicitors will be very happy to talk to you.
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