Claiming For An Unnecessary Radical Prostatectomy
The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum and will be about the size of a walnut, although it does enlarge with old age.
The prostate's primary function is to create a fluid (called prostatic fluid) that is released into the semen upon ejaculation. It also has a passive role during urination, as the gland is wrapped around the head of the urethra (the tube which runs from the bladder to the end of the penis, through which urine flows). This helps to control the rate of urination.
Treating prostate cancer
Unfortunately the prostate is prone to cancer. Every year in the UK, 36,000 men are diagnosed with the disease, most of whom are over 70 years old. Unlike many other forms of cancer, prostate cancer progresses very slowly and does not usually produce any symptoms. Because of this, many men do not know they have prostate cancer, earning it the name 'the silent killer'.
But if a patient is diagnosed with prostate cancer, he will need to give serious consideration to the type of treatment he would like. This is because all forms of prostate cancer treatment are associated with life-altering side-effects. Therefore many men decide not to have any treatment until there is a real risk that the cancer might spread.
However, it is important that treatment is not left too late, because once it has spread to other parts of the body it will be very difficult to cure. If treatment does become necessary to prevent the progression of the disease, a team of medical professionals must assess a patient and determine what form of treatment would be best suited to their situation. Indeed, there are many forms of prostate cancer treatment, one of which is a radical prostatectomy.
Why would a radical prostatectomy be needed?
A radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland. This will be suitable for patients whose cancer is localised to the prostate. It cures the disease because it removes all the cancerous cells. However, the operation does carry certain risks, with sexual dysfunction and urinary incontinence being very real possibilities.
Compensation for an unnecessary radical prostatectomy
A radical prostatectomy is not something to be taken lightly as it can often lead to very disturbing side-effects. That is why if you have had an unnecessary radical prostatectomy, you will be struggling to accept what has happened to you. Although this is very rare, it does sadly happen, normally when a patient is wrongly diagnosed with cancer.
If this has happened to you, do not suffer in silence; contact a solicitor about making a medical negligence claim. While pursuing compensation will not undo the damage you have been caused, it will at least help you achieve a sense of justice for the terrible problems you have been left with.
Can We Help You With A Medical Negligence Enquiry?
Early legal assistance can be vital so please contact us if you would like to discuss your situation. Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Can We Help You With A Medical Negligence Enquiry?
Early legal assistance can be vital so please contact us if you would like to discuss your situation. Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
Free Medical Negligence Guide
'7 Questions You Must Ask Before Choosing A Medical Negligence Solicitor'