Examination Failures and Perineal Tears
The diagnosis of perineal tears during vaginal childbirth requires precision, accuracy and thoroughness. A failure of diagnosis can leave the new mother with shocking bowel symptoms.
Guidelines on perineal tear examination
The guidelines of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) on the management of severe perineal tears states the following:
'All women having a vaginal delivery are at risk of OASIS or isolated rectal buttonhole tears. They should therefore be examined systematically, including a digital rectal examination, to assess the severity of damage, particularly prior to suturing.'
The recent OASI Care Bundle, issued by the RCOG, also recommends a post-natal perineal examination which 'should include a per rectum check, even when the perineum appears intact.' It further comments that any damage should be 'graded according to the RCOG guidelines'.
Medical negligence and perineal tears
- If an examination does not take place, the woman may be left with a severe undiagnosed and unrepaired injury to the anal sphincter, causing significant and debilitating bowel problems.
- If the examination does take place but is inadequate in its attention to detail, only a part of the injury may be observed or diagnosed. If, for example, a digital, rectal examination does not take place, anal sphincter damage may be missed
- If the recording of a perineal tear and anal sphincter damaged is not carried out with care and precision, the new mother may receive an inadequate repair despite the fact that she has undergone an examination.
The impact of examination failures
The long-term impact of a failure to examine or a substandard examination can alter a woman's life entirely.
Severe bowel problems can limit a woman's capacity to earn a living as well as causing relationship issues and restricting her willingness to leave the house and travel or socialise.
It can also have a significant impact on the woman's ability to bring up her new-born baby.
Legal advice
If you believe that your debilitating bowel symptoms are due to examination failures after the birth of your baby, contact Glynns to discuss your situation.
One of our team of specialist medical negligence solicitors will be happy to talk to you. If you are suffering significant financial effects due to your bowel symptoms, it might be appropriate to make 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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