Compensation for Negligent Post-operative Necrotising Fasciitis
Surgical procedures, through incisions to the skin, put a patient at risk of infection. Necrotising fasciitis is a rare but horrific infection which can occur following surgery. Where this is due to medical negligence, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Necrotising fasciitis can arise if bacteria accesses the body's deep soft tissue where it starts to cause tissue decay and can, ultimately lead to multiple organ failure and the death of the patient. Without rapid diagnosis and treatment, this is the inevitable outcome.
If either pre-operative infection management or post-operative care have contributed to the patient's experience of this appalling infection, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having provided substandard care.
Pre-operative care
If a patient is considered as being 'at-risk' of infection prior to a surgical procedure, it may be appropriate for them to receive prophylactic antibiotics. The purpose of this is to reduce their risk.
Elderly patients, those with diabetes and patients who have a weakened immune system could come into this category.
A failure by medical practitioners to assess their level of risk or to take the necessary action in the face of that risk is likely to be regarded as negligent. If the patient subsequently suffers the shocking ravages and trauma of a necrotising fasciitis infection, it may be appropriate to make a claim for the pain, suffering and financial losses resulting from the negligence. This might, for example, include income losses due to incapacity to work.
Post-operative care
A patient who has undergone a surgical procedure requires careful monitoring for any signs and symptoms of infection.
Although rare, an infection in the wound could be necrotising fasciitis. Symptoms of intense pain, redness, swelling and tenderness should merit further immediate investigation. A failure to observe the patient's symptoms or a failure to consider the possible implications might be regarded as negligent.
A bed sore or an abscess could also lead to this appalling infection and both require close monitoring and treatment to ensure the long-term health of the patient.
Claiming compensation
Here at Glynns Solicitors we have considerable experience of running high-value compensation claims for the negligent management of necrotising fasciitis.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling long-term effect of this shocking infection, contact us today to talk to one of our specialist medical negligence solicitors about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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