Can I Get Compensation for Fournier's Gangrene?
Fournier's gangrene is a specific form of necrotising fasciitis, an infection which destroys the tissue with which it comes into contact.
Fournier's gangrene in the perineum
Necrotising fasciitis is a soft-tissue infection which most often affects the abdominal region and the limbs. If it affects the perineum and genital region, it is referred to as fournier's gangrene, after the scientist who first identified it.
It is as bad as it sounds. Once the causative bacteria reach the subcutaneous tissue, all infected tissue will die. It is a fast-moving infection and, if diagnosis and treatment are delayed, the patient may suffer permanent deformity, may require the fitting of a stoma, or may die.
Necrotising fasciitis and fournier's gangrene are, thankfully, fairly rare conditions. Many medical professionals may never come across them. It is essential, nonetheless, that they have an awareness of the possible symptoms and a willingness to consider the presence of this infection as an explanation for the symptoms as presented by the patient before them.
A failure to do so may threaten the patient with disability or death.
A failure to do so may also justify a claim for compensation where the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome due to the failings of their medical professional.
Diagnosis and medical negligence
Once a patient is suspected of suffering from fournier's gangrene, treatment is a matter of emergency.
It is essential that every bit of infected tissue is removed however dramatic and extensive that may be. Without such severe and comprehensive debridement, the infection will continue to spread and the patient will become increasingly unwell, until they require life-support.
Symptoms which should raise concerns as to the possible presence of necrotising fasciitis could include the following:
- Redness, swelling and tenderness around the genitals
- Intense pain in that region
- Possible discolouration of the skin
- A possible portal of entry for bacteria to access the deep soft tissue, such as an abscess or pressure sore, or cut to the skin
The patient may also be starting to experience additional symptoms of severe infection such as a high temperature or chills and rapid breathing.
Making a claim for compensation
If you or a loved one are suffering the appalling consequences of fournier's gangrene due to a delay in diagnosing and treating the condition, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. This can help you to cope with some of the difficulties you may be facing.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation, to talk to one of our team of experienced solicitors.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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