Post-operative Infection Compensation
A post-operative infection can cause a debilitating and shocking impact on the patient. A successful compensation claim can help to deal with both the physical and psychological effects.
Post-operative infections
Patients recovering from major surgery, particularly the elderly and those suffering with diabetes, are susceptible to the development of an infection in their wound. Their immune system may already be weakened and their wound offers a portal of entry to bacteria.
Some common surgical procedures which may lead to a post-operative infection include the following:
- Abdominal surgery such as a Caesarean section or a hysterectomy
- Hip replacement
- Knee replacement
Possible effects of post-operative infection
Whilst it may sound fairly innocuous, a post-operative infection (or surgical site infection) can be extremely difficult to combat and, if poorly handled, can bring about catastrophic and life-changing effects:
- The patient is likely to require further treatment in hospital
- They may require further surgery and further recovery periods
- Their condition may necessitate extended courses of antibiotics
- They may develop sepsis
- The initial surgery may itself be compromised
- The infection may spread and affect other areas of the body
- They may lose a limb or suffer from organ failure
- They may die
The long-term impact
The on-going problems subsequently suffered by the patient can affect their day-to-day life to a significant extent.
Case study
In a recent case of post-operative infection where Glynns Solicitors handled the compensation claim, the patient required years of additional treatment and revision surgery. Her life became increasingly restricted due to mobility issues and it became impossible to work.
Her independence was compromised, her ability to socialise and carry out household chores was limited and constant pain became a feature of her daily existence.
Monitoring post-operative patients
Patients exhibiting even the slightest sign of post-operative infection should be thoroughly investigated to ensure that any infection is addressed immediately in order to prevent deterioration and the need for yet more dramatic treatment.
Compensation claims
Where what may have seemed a straightforward operation ends in such devastating outcomes as suggested above, the patient may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Where medical professionals both fail to recognise and fail to act upon such signs, they may be considered to have provided a substandard level of care.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the life-changing and debilitating impact of a post-operative infection, contact us to discuss your experience with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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