3rd Degree Tear Misdiagnosed as 2nd Degree Tear
Anyone who has experienced a severe perineal tear can tell you that there is a big difference between a 2nd and a 3rd degree tear and correct diagnosis is absolutely vital.
Perineal Tears
Perineal tears during vaginal childbirth are not unusual. Up to nine out of ten women are likely to experience a tear of some degree during the process. However, only up to 5% of women are likely to experience a severe tear - either a 3rd or 4th degree tear.
The impact of a 3rd degree tear as opposed to a second degree tear is far greater both in terms of immediate physical damage but also in the long-term symptoms which the woman may go on to suffer.
The accurate and prompt diagnosis and treatment of any perineal tear is, therefore, vital in order to give the woman the best chance of positive, long-term future health.
How do 2nd and 3rd degree tears differ?
In terms of damage, a second degree tear will injure the skin and muscle of the perineum - the area between the vagina and the anus. A third degree tear, however, will also damage the anal muscles which control the opening and closing of the bowel - the anal sphincter. This may be damage to just the external sphincter muscles, or to both external and internal muscles.
In terms of long-term symptoms, a woman with a second degree tear will usually recover fully. However, a woman with a third degree tear may go on to suffer the appalling symptoms of both wind and faecal incontinence. This means that the damage to her anal sphincter will prevent her from stopping the escape of wind and faeces form her bowel.
Diagnosing perineal tears
A cursory examination of the woman's genital area after she has given birth is not sufficient to establish whether or not she has suffered a severe tear.
The effects of a 4th degree tear, in particular, extend to the interior of the anus and a thorough examination including a digital examination of the rectum is vital in order to diagnose a tear correctly.
Failure to diagnose a tear correctly
If a severe tear is diagnosed as a more superficial tear, the woman will not be given the correct treatment. A severe tear requires surgery in an operating theatre by an experienced surgeon in order to ensure that a full and effective repair is carried out.
Without this, even if the tear is subsequently diagnosed accurately, the chances of recovery are reduced.
Medical Negligence
If you are suffering with the long-term effects of a severe tear because you were misdiagnosed after the birth of your child, you may be able to claim compensation.
Here at Glynns Solicitors we have successfully handled many perineal tear claims and would be happy to discuss your circumstances with you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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