On-going Nerve Problems After Hip Replacement
Hip replacement operations are very common and usually highly successful. However, a number of risks are associated with this popular procedure which can cause long-term dysfunction and loss of mobility and may lead to a medical negligence claim.
The femoral nerve
Surgery to replace a hip puts surrounding structures such as blood vessels and nerves at risk.
One of the major nerves associated with the lower body is the femoral nerve which travels through the pelvic region and down the leg. This path brings it into extremely close proximity to the hip joint and makes it vulnerable to damage during hip replacement surgery.
The function of the femoral nerve is to provide sensation in the thigh as well as initiating movement to straighten the leg. If the femoral nerve is damaged, it can affect the patient's ability to walk and climb stairs as well as causing pain. The patient may become unstable and at risk of falling.
Damage during surgery
Damage to the femoral nerve can occur during hip replacement surgery for a number of reasons:
- the nerve may be actively damaged by misuse of a surgical instrument
- the nerve may be compressed or restricted by the misplacement of the retractor clips used to keep clear the location of the surgery
- the nerve may be accidentally stretched during the surgical procedure
Such injury is rare and, even where it occurs, the majority of patient recover their sensation and movement after a period of a few months and the support of physiotherapy.
However, the occasional patient is unfortunate and does not fully recover their lost function. This can have a significant impact on their ability to walk, drive, work and remain independent. They may be at risk of falling and causing further damage.
An inability to work or being limited in the nature of employment which a person can undertake can cause a reduction in their earning capacity.
A successful compensation claim may help to deal with this problem.
Medical negligence
If the patient suffers long-term dysfunction due to damage to the femoral nerve during a hip replacement, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the on-going effects of femoral nerve damage due to medical negligence, contact Glynns Solicitors to discuss the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
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