Undiagnosed OASI and How to Claim Compensation
An undiagnosed OASI is likely to leave you with significant bowel problems. Speak to a legal specialist about the possibility of making a claim for compensation for the impact of this distressing injury.
What is an OASI?
An OASI (obstetric anal sphincter injury) is a severe injury to the anal sphincter, the muscles around the anus, which occasionally occurs during vaginal childbirth.
Diagnosis matters
If a woman has suffered a severe birth tear during the delivery of her baby, it is essential that her injury is promptly and accurately diagnosed. Without diagnosis, a repair will not take place. And without a repair, the new mother is likely to suffer permanent and worsening bowel problems such as incontinence of both wind and faeces as well as perineal infections.
Diagnosis is achieved through a thorough examination of the new mother shortly after the birth of her baby. Such an examination should, according to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, include a digital rectal examination which would assess the condition of the muscles around the anus, the anal sphincter.
If any damage is found, it needs to be accurately identified and recorded as either a 3a, 3b, 3c or 4th degree tear.
If the relevant medical professional attending the new mother is uncertain as to the nature of an injury, or uncertain as to whether there is an injury at all, they should obtain a second opinion. Leaving the new mother with an undiagnosed severe injury is not an option.
Claiming compensation
If you have suffered an injury due to negligent or substandard medical care, you are legally entitled to claim compensation for the impact of the negligence, if any. For example, in the case of an OASI, you may be struggling to work due to your bowel symptoms. If this is the case and it has left you with a reduced income as a result, such a financial loss would be included in a successful claim. Both your past and anticipated future losses would be considered.
If you suspect or know that your symptoms are being caused by an undiagnosed OASI, you should speak to a lawyer who specialises in medical negligence law. They will have the expertise to investigate the quality of your medical care and its impact on both you and your quality of life.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers and extensive knowledge of OASI negligence and compensation claims. Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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