Misclassified Perineal Tear and Compensation for Medical Negligence
If you are struggling with distressing bowel problems following the birth of your baby, contact Glynns Solicitors, to discuss the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Classification of severe perineal tears
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists provides clear guidelines for the diagnosis and classification of childbirth perineal tears. It also stresses the necessity that every woman who has given birth through the vagina should undergo a thorough perineal examination shortly after the birth of their baby, including a digital rectal examination to check for any sign of damage to the anal sphincter muscles.
If a perineal tear is misclassified by the medical professionals who are present at the birth of a baby, the long-term outcome for the new mother can be disastrous.
An undiagnosed and, therefore, unrepaired, severe birth tear can leave a woman with permanent incontinence of wind and faeces, with the additional possibility of a fistula and the ned for a stoma. Not the outcome than any woman would expect when going to hospital to have a baby!
Severe birth tears, also referred to as 3rd and 4th degree tears depending on the extent of the injury, damage the muscles around the anus and reduce a woman's ability to control the passing of wind and faeces. It is essential that they are promptly, fully and accurately diagnosed in order to ensure an effective and comprehensive repair.
- A 3a tear damages up to 50% of the external anal sphincter
- 3b tears damage more than 50% of the external anal sphincter
- 3c tears additionally damage the internal anal sphincter
- 4th degree tears also damage the internal lining of the anal canal
Clearly, accurate classification is crucial. A misdiagnosis or a complete failure of diagnosis will leave the new mother to suffer a lifetime of disabling and life changing symptoms.
It may also be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
Making a claim
If it is found that you have been the victim of negligent maternity care, a successful claim will address the consequences of that negligence. Where appropriate, this could include a loss of earnings if you are now struggling to work, as well as the costs of specialist treatment, equipment and personal care where this is necessary.
Investigating the quality of your care and the possible value of your claim can be time-consuming so make sure you contact a medical negligence solicitor at the earliest possible moment.
An experienced specialist will be very familiar with the problems which you are facing and will be able to guide you through the complexities of making a claim.
Free legal advice
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in birth tear claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor 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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