Delayed Suspicion of Necrotising Fasciitis And Claiming Compensation
A delay in suspecting necrotising fasciitis will cause a deterioration in the patient's outcome. Early suspicion is key and a misdiagnosis may justify a claim for compensation.
The appalling reality of necrotising fasciitis
Necrotising fasciitis is an infection associated with a wide range of terrifying aspects:
- Even with treatment, this appalling condition has a high mortality rate at around 30%
- Deterioration can occur at an alarming rate as the infection spreads through the body
- It can trigger sepsis and multiple organ failure
- Essential treatment takes the form of debridement (surgical removal) of all infected tissue, causing extensive scarring
- It may require several surgical debridement procedures before the infection is halted entirely
- In severe cases, it can require the removal of a partial or total limb in order to prevent further damage
- Patients with necrotising fasciitis are likely to spend an extended period of time in an intensive care or high dependency unit
- In the early stages, it can be difficult to identify and diagnose
Suspecting necrotising fasciitis
This catalogue of unpleasant associations means that diagnosis of necrotising fasciitis at the earliest possible stage is essential.
A failure to consider this diagnosis, a failure to examine the patient thoroughly and a failure to consider the need to refer a patient for further investigation will all allow the patient to suffer a rapid and life-threatening deterioration.
Factors which need to be taken into consideration would include the following:
- Is the patient exhibiting redness, swelling and tenderness, particularly in a limb or in the abdominal region
- Has the patient recently experienced a cut or wound to the skin including an injection or a surgical incision?
- Is the patient experiencing intense pain, disproportionate to the apparent cause?
- Is there discolouration of the skin?
- Is the patient showing any signs of infection such as a high temperature or chills?
When is it appropriate to claim compensation?
Where an opportunity to suspect, diagnose or respond to necrotising fasciitis is missed by a medical professional, a patient can suffer an appalling and life-changing long-term outcome.
In such circumstances, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. If a patient suffers due to substandard medical care, the law entitles them to compensation.
Speak to a specialist
If you or a loved one are struggling with the varied and shocking impact of necrotising fasciitis, such as loss of employment and income, speak to Glynns Solicitors.
We are specialists in medical negligence compensation and one of our team of experienced lawyers will be very happy to discuss your situation with you.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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