spinal cord injuries

These are amongst the devastating injuries for which we are able to provide expert advice.

We recognise that for the individual this type of injury gives rise to great suffering.  We recognise also that there are carers to be considered, problems of serious financial compromise and housing which are also of crucial importance to our clients.

Spinal cord trauma may be seen in the context of clinical negligence in the following scenarios:

• failure properly to immobilise a patient who has sustained a fractured neck
• inadequate handling techniques of patients with fractures of the spine
• spinal orthopaedic/ neuro-surgery, including decompressive operations and tumour resection
• Injury to the vascular supply to the spinal cord

Where there is planned elective spinal surgery, issues of consent are critically important.  Many neurosurgical units will now strive to ensure that their patients are fully informed before undergoing surgery with a risk of spinal cord injury.  Recently there have been changes to the law on consent and where these issues arise, we can provide expert advice.

Irreversible spinal cord damage is amongst the most catastrophic form of injury.  A successful claim can enable the costs of care, physiotherapy, management of carers, personal mobility, appropriate transport, appropriate adapted accommodation to be claimed and provide compensation for loss of earnings as well as an award for pain and suffering and loss of amenity.

For further information please contact Alison McClure in the Clinical Negligence team on 023 8085 7345 or email alison.mcclure@bllaw.co.uk.