Compensation Claim for Missed Bowel Perforation
If the symptoms of a perforated or ruptured bowel are misdiagnosed, the patient can be left in a life-threatening situation. If the on-going impact is severe, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
The threat of a perforated bowel
The faecal and bacterial matter which develops in the bowel as part of the digestive process is normally retained within the bowel until it is removed from the body via the anus.
If this matter leaks into the abdominal cavity, it can present a threat of infection to the peritoneum or lining of the abdomen. This can, in turn, trigger sepsis which can quickly become life-threatening.
Without rapid diagnosis and repair, the patient can suffer multiple organ failure and death. Even where the patient survives, they are at risk of a wide variety of debilitating physical and psychological complications due to the impact of the infection and sepsis.
It is essential, therefore, that whenever possible a perforation of the bowel is diagnosed as soon as possible to avoid this appalling outcome.
Symptoms of a perforated bowel
Symptoms which might suggest that a patient has suffered a bowel perforation could include the following:
- A bloated abdomen
- Intense abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- A high temperature of chills and shivering
A failure to recognise the possible implication of these symptoms and a resulting misdiagnosis, may cause the patient to suffer severe, long-term problems and may justify a claim for compensation.
Diagnosis of a bowel perforation
A perforated bowel may occur in a patient due to a pre-existing condition such as crohn's disease, diverticulitis or ulcerative colitis. Diagnosis of these conditions and the implementation of appropriate medical treatment is essential to reduce the risk of perforation.
If medical professionals fail to diagnose a condition of this nature, allowing a patient to suffer a deterioration in health and a subsequent perforation, they may be regarded as having provided substandard care.
A failure to examine a patient or a failure to refer a patient for further tests or scans may be regarded as negligent.
Speak with a legal specialist
If you or a loved one are struggling with the shocking, long-term impact of a perforated bowel due to a failure by medical professionals to diagnose this life-threatening condition, contact Glynns Solicitors.
Specialists in medical negligence compensation, we have a team of experienced lawyers who will be very happy to talk to you, free of charge, and discuss the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers. Call us today to talk to an expert, free of charge, about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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