Negligent Perineal Tear Diagnosis
An inaccurate diagnosis of perineal trauma following vaginal childbirth can mean the difference between a full recovery from any bowel symptoms and permanent, distressing problems.
Assessing perineal trauma after vaginal birth
Perineal birth tears need to be classified carefully according to the extent of the damage which has occurred. Anal sphincter damage in particular requires precise classification in order to ensure that the new mother receives a full repair.
A failure to diagnose perineal damage accurately may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
A thorough examination of the new mother's perineum and anal sphincter should take place shortly after the birth of the baby.
A digital, rectal examination should ensure that any anal sphincter damage is identified so that the woman can undergo a skilled repair in an operating theatre. All and any damage should be classified appropriately as a 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th degree tear. Third degree tears should be sub-classified as 3a, 3b or 3c tears according to the extent of trauma caused.
Guidelines on perineal trauma assessment
The NICE guidelines on 'Care of the woman after birth' emphasise the need for accuracy in diagnosis with the following statements:
- 'If it is not possible to adequately assess the trauma, transfer the woman with her baby to obstetric-led care.'
- 'Seek advice from a more experienced midwife or obstetrician if there is uncertainty about the nature or extent of the trauma. Transfer the woman (with her baby) to obstetric-led care if the repair needs further surgical or anaesthetic expertise.'
- Document the systematic assessment and its results fully, possibly pictorially
If an inexperienced medical practitioner fails to heed these recommendations and makes an inaccurate assessment and recording of a woman's perineal and anal damage, the new mother may face a lifetime of severe and debilitating bowel problems.
Medical negligence and compensation claims
If on-going physical problems are due to the errors of medical professionals, the individual affected may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Where the impact of medical negligence is causing significant financial losses, a successful claim can provide compensation for these financial effects.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are struggling with the impact of debilitating bowel symptoms due to a failure to diagnose your perineal trauma accurately, contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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