OASI Compensation Claims
An Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI) is a severe perineal and anal injury which can occur during vaginal childbirth. Effective medical management of an OASI is essential if the woman is to have a symptom-free future. Poor medical care of a severe tear can leave the woman with debilitating on-going symptoms and can justify a claim for compensation.
What counts as an OASI?
An OASI is otherwise described as a third or fourth degree tear. These are perineal injuries during childbirth which damage more than just the skin and muscle of the perineum. A severe 3rd or 4th degree tear additionally causes damage to the anal sphincter which controls the bowel. Accurate diagnosis and a high-quality repair are fundamental to the woman's health and well-being.
Is an OASI negligent?
Suffering an OASI is not necessarily an indication of negligent care. Poor medical care subsequent to the injury is more likely to be a cause for compensation.
- A failure to diagnose a severe birth tear will mean that the woman does not undergo an appropriate repair. This can result in long-term bowel dysfunction and can be a justification for a compensation claim.
- A misdiagnosis of a perineal tear can also mean that the woman fails to receive adequate treatment and suffers on-going problems.
- An incompetent repair can also leave the new mother susceptible appalling bowel symptoms unnecessarily and can justify a claim for compensation.
Occasionally, the occurrence of a severe tear may be attributable to negligence if the relevant medical professional fails to carry out an episiotomy prior to an instrumental delivery when it would generally be considered to be necessary.
OASI compensation claims
Depending on the circumstances, compensation claims for negligence relating to severe perineal tears can produce high-value results.
Wind and faecal incontinence can have a significant impact on a woman's ability to earn a living. Where a woman's income has been significantly reduced due to the symptoms of her bowel dysfunction, it may be appropriate to make a claim for her financial losses. Where the bowel problems are considered to be the result of her negligent care, a compensation claim may be a helpful way forward.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are suffering on-going and debilitating bowel problems due to a failure by medical practitioners to manage your OASI effectively, 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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