Medical Negligence and Compartment Syndrome Compensation
Compartment syndrome can cause devastating and life-changing disability. Where medical negligence has played a part, it may be possible to claim compensation.
Compartment syndrome and possible consequences
Compartment syndrome is the development of increased pressure within a muscle compartment which can, if diagnosis and treatment are delayed, cause permanent disability by damaging nerves and blood supply.
When compartment syndrome occurs in the leg, for example, the patient may suffer a loss of mobility which can restrict their ability to work and engage in a number of activities. Their quality of life can become severely restricted and they may suffer significant financial losses which should be recoverable in a successful compensation claim.
Medical negligence and compartment syndrome
Negligent medical care can contribute to a poor outcome from compartment syndrome in a number of ways, including the following:
- A failure of care during surgery can leave a patient susceptible to developing compartment syndrome. This may be due to a positioning issue or related to surgical technique. If the patient develops compartment syndrome and permanent disability as a result, the relevant medical professional may be regarded as negligent
- If a patient is developing compartment syndrome, prompt diagnosis and treatment is crucial to a positive outcome. A delay in diagnosing the condition may contribute to a poor outcome and be regarded as negligent
- Inadequate treatment of compartment syndrome, leaving the patient to suffer long-term debilitating symptoms may also be regarded as negligent.
When to claim compensation
If a patient suffers a poor long-term outcome due to negligent medical care, they are legally entitled to claim compensation for the consequences of that negligence such as loss of earnings or the costs of care.
It is important to bear in mind, however, that compensation claims need to be issued with a court within three years of the date of the alleged negligence, and a thorough investigation of the patient's care is required prior to that deadline.
Such an investigation requires the expertise of a specialist medical negligence solicitor who is conversant with the complexities of this field of law. This will provide the patient with the best chance of a fair and comprehensive settlement of their claim.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced, specialist lawyers.
Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for the consequences of your negligent care.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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