Lymphoedema Caused By Surgical Error
If you have developed lymphoedema due to surgical error, you could be entitled to pursue compensation for the damages incurred. Contact a medical negligence solicitor to find out more.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is when an area of tissue becomes swollen due to a build-up of fluid. It happens when the lymphatic system is disrupted or damaged, hindering the body's ability to drain excess fluid from the tissues. It is a permanent condition and can arise in any part of the body, most commonly the arms or legs.
Lymphoedema can either be caused by faulty genes (primary lymphoedema) or by damage to the lymphatic system (secondary lymphoedema) – for example, from cancer, injury, trauma or infection.
Lymphoedema can result in reduced mobility, pain, and increased susceptibility to infection.
Lymphoedema from surgical error
It is possible for the lymphatic system to be damaged during surgery, and this in turn may lead to lymphoedema.
For instance, a surgeon may choose to use a diathermy during a procedure. This surgical tool uses the heat conducted from electricity to seal wounds, stemming the flow of blood. If it is not used correctly, a patient may suffer diathermy damage. This will burn the skin, and depending upon the site of injury, the damage may also extend to the lymphatic glands and vessels. If the inside of the thigh is being operated upon, there may be damage to the lymphatic bundle.
Should the lymphatic system be harmed in this way, a patient will go on to develop lymphoedema.
Claiming compensation for lymphoedema
If surgical error directly causes a patient to develop significant lymphoedema, which would not otherwise have happened, there may be grounds for a medical negligence compensation claim.
This is because the standard of care provided by the surgeon will have fallen below an acceptable level, causing a patient to suffer unnecessary injury. Although lymphoedema is not life-threatening, it is a chronic condition that can have a detrimental impact upon an individual's life. The patient therefore deserves to be compensated for the harm he/she has wrongfully endured. This includes financial redress for the physical and emotional pain and suffering that has been experienced, and for the financial loss that has been incurred.
Talk to a solicitor
To find out more about claiming compensation for lymphoedema caused by medical error, please get in touch with us today. We will be able to advise what options are available to you, suggesting whether or not you could be entitled to compensation.
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