Claiming Compensation for a Failed OASI Examination
An examination to check for any signs of an OASI following vaginal childbirth is essential. A failure of examination may result in permanent bowel dysfunction. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
What is an OASI?
An OASI is an obstetric anal sphincter injury. In simple terms, this is an injury to the muscles around the anus which occurs during childbirth.
As the baby is born, the pressure on the perineum may cause a tear to develop. Occasionally, in around one in twenty women, such a tear can spread across the perineum and damage the anal muscles.
These injuries are classified as 3rd and 4th degree tears depending on the extent of the damage. They are all regarded as severe injuries, requiring a surgical repair by an experienced surgeon in an operating theatre.
An accurate diagnosis is necessary to ensure that a comprehensive repair takes place.
The problems of examination failures
A woman who has just given birth through the vagina requires an examination which includes an assessment of her anal muscles.
An examination of the perineum alone is not sufficient and may lead to a misdiagnosis.
A failure to examine may be regarded as negligent.
Why claim compensation?
The problem with a failure to diagnose an OASI, is that a delayed repair of a severe tear may not be successful in alleviating the new mother's bowel symptoms. Consequently, she may continue to suffer incontinence of wind and faeces, and urgency for the rest of her life. These symptoms may even worsen over time.
As a result, a failure by medical professionals to examine a woman for a known possible effect of vaginal childbirth, leaving the woman to suffer life-changing symptoms may justify a claim for compensation.
A successful compensation claim would take account of any financial losses resulting from the consequences of the negligence such as a reduced income if the woman is now limited in the type and extent of work she can manage.
Speak to a legal specialist
If you think you may be experiencing the symptoms of an unrepaired 3rd or 4th degree tear, such as leakage or urgency, speak to a medical negligence legal specialist. They will have the skills and experience to investigate your medical care and advise whether or not you may be able to make a claim.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers.
Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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