Fournier's Gangrene Compensation Claims
A failure to diagnose and treat fournier's gangrene as a matter of emergency may have catastrophic consequences and justify a claim for compensation.
What is fournier's gangrene?
Fournier's gangrene is a very specific form of necrotising fasciitis. Necrotising fasciitis is an infection which destroys the body's deep tissue as it spreads through the body. If it affects the genital and perineal region between the legs, it is referred to as fournier's gangrene.
Why is it an emergency?
Diagnosis and treatment of fournier's gangrene needs to occur at the earliest possible moment in the course of infection. It is an infection which can spread very rapidly so every delay in treatment means an increase in the extent of tissue which is damaged.
Damage in the perineal region can lead to sexual dysfunction, scarring and damage to the genitals and, if the infection continues to spread, may even threaten the function of the bowel.
Necrotising fasciitis is potentially life-threatening if the infection is allowed to spread too far and can sometimes necessitate an amputation in order to halt the infection.
Medical negligence and fournier's gangrene
- A failure to treat a condition such as an abscess or bed sore can allow fournier's gangrene to develop and may be regarded as poor-quality care
- A failure to recognise the symptoms of necrotising fasciitis, leading to a delay in treatment and a poor long-term outcome may also be regarded as negligent
- A delay in arranging treatment of fournier's gangrene can allow the infection to spread and compromise the patient's sexual and bowel function. Treatment requires that all infected tissue should be surgically removed. This process in itself is destructive to the integrity of the patient's perineal region and, clearly, the less tissue that needs to be removed the better.
Claiming compensation
The ravages of fournier's gangrene can leave an individual both physically and psychologically devastated. The practical and financial implications are likewise considerable. A person affected by this appalling infection may find that their capacity to work has been affected and that their income is significantly reduced.
If this distressing scenario is due to unnecessary delays in medical care, a successful compensation claim can help. It will address the issue of any financial losses caused by the negligence and help the individual to come to terms with what has happened.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of fournier's gangrene due to poor-quality medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist in medical negligence 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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