Failure to Diagnose Scaphoid Fracture
If your scaphoid fracture was not diagnosed, leaving you with a poor outcome, are you able to claim compensation? Contact us to find out more.
Scaphoid fractures
The scaphoid bone can be found between the base of the thumb and the wrist. It enables a range of movement in the thumb, and enables it to grasp.
A scaphoid fracture is when the scaphoid bone breaks. This normally occurs when someone falls onto an outstretched hand. This will cause pain at the base of the thumb which may extend up into the wrist. There will also be reduced movement in the thumb.
Diagnosing a scaphoid fracture
As mentioned above, a scaphoid fracture is associated with pain and reduced movement in the thumb. If a patient presents with these symptoms, doctors should suspect a scaphoid fracture – especially if there is a recent history of a fall onto an outstretched hand.
If a fracture is suspected, an x-ray should be arranged. However, it is important that doctors remember that scaphoid fractures do not always show up on a standard x-ray. This means scaphoid x-ray views must be requested to ensure a fracture is not missed.
Even if a fracture is not seen, a patient should be monitored to see whether their symptoms resolve. If problems persist, further imaging tests will be needed. For example, an MRI scan can detect whether the bone has been disrupted.
Missed scaphoid fracture
If a scaphoid fracture is missed, there is a danger that the bone will not heal properly. This is particularly true if a blockage prevents the supply of blood. Additionally the fragments of the bone may not re-align properly, resulting in mal-union of the bone. This can adversely affect function, causing long-term pain and loss of movement.
Compensation claim for missed fracture
When a patient's scaphoid fracture is missed, questions must be raised as to whether the level of care fell below an acceptable standard. For example:
- Did doctors fail to suspect a fracture despite a patient's symptoms/history of a fall?
- Did doctors fail to arrange an x-ray with scaphoid x-rays views?
- Was a follow-up investigation ordered when the patient's symptoms did not improve?
- Was treatment delayed?
- Was the wrong method of treatment provided – e.g. surgery was not provided when it was needed?
- Did surgical error make the injury worse?
If you have been subject to substandard medical care, such as the examples described above, you could be able to make a compensation claim.
To talk to a solicitor about compensation for a missed scaphoid fracture, please contact us today.
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