Forceps OASI and How to Claim Compensation for Negligence
An OASI following an instrumental delivery requires prompt and competent care. Contact a specialist solicitor if negligent care has left you will distressing bowel problems.
Forceps deliveries and obstetric injuries
Women who give birth through the vagina are at risk of a tear around the perineum due to the pressure of the baby's delivery.
An increased risk occurs when a forceps delivery is required. An instrumental delivery adds to the chance that a woman will experience an extended 3rd or 4th degree tear which goes beyond the perineum and damages the muscles around the anus.
Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI) are a known risk in these circumstances and maternity professionals should ensure that a new mother is thoroughly assessed for any signs of anal sphincter damage.
Maternity negligence in OASI care
Where this has occurred, it is essential that the injury is precisely diagnosed according to its extent as follows:
- A 3rd degree tear affects up to 50% of the external sphincter
- A 3b tear affects more than 50% of the external sphincter
- A 3c tear additionally damages the internal sphincter
- A 4th degree tear additionally damages the lining of the anal canal
Any of these injuries require a prompt, comprehensive and effective repair in an operating theatre by an experienced surgeon.
If maternity professionals fail to carry out a digital rectal examination following the birth of a baby by instrumental delivery, they may be regarded as having been negligent in their care of the new mother. If they fail to identify damage when it has occurred and if they fail to provide an accurate diagnosis, they may also be regarded as negligent.
If a repair is not carried out and the new mother suffers debilitating bowel symptoms of incontinence of wind and faeces, possibly even experiencing leakage form the vagina due to a fistula, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Making a claim for compensation
This would address the impact of the negligence by assessing the symptoms and challenges which the new mother is suffering which would not have been the case with an accurate diagnosis and prompt repair of her anal sphincter injury.
For example, if she is now struggling to work because of her symptoms or she now needs specialist treatment or equipment in order to try to manage those shocking symptoms, the associated financial losses and costs would be included in a claim.
Free legal advice
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive experience in OASI claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
We can offer No Win No Fee medical negligence funding which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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