What Does This Mean?
It is okay if you never heard of compartment syndrome before. It is not an everyday injury. Today, we want to give you a brief overview of what this is and how it could potentially be caused by or exasperated by a healthcare professional.
Compartment syndrome happens when the pressure in the muscles builds to dangerous levels. You will see this most commonly after a break in the arm or leg that causes the muscles around the break to accumulate pressure. In most cases, the only way to alleviate this extreme pressure is for a medical professional to perform a surgical procedure called a fasciotomy, a procedure that involved cutting into the muscles affected with a scalpel the allows the pressure to subside.
We know that sounds traumatic, but the procedure can help save a person from extreme damage in a limb as well as prevent amputation.
Most cases of compartment syndrome are not due to the negligence of a healthcare professional. However, there are times when they can inadvertently cause the condition or make an existing one even worse.
- CS can occur when blood flow is restored to a portion of the body after a surgical procedure.
- If a cast or bandage is applied too tightly by a healthcare professional, symptoms of compartment syndrome can develop. If the cast or bandage is not immediately removed, there could be permanent damage.
- Failing to notice the signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome (a misdiagnosis) can cause serious problems for a patient’s health.
- Healthcare professionals should know that patients on blood thinners have a higher risk of developing CS. Failing to obtain a full medical history for a patient could lead to compartment syndrome being ruled out too early.
The Next Steps
There is no way for you to handle this on your own, not when you need to be focused on healing from your injuries. At Brown, Moore & Associates, PLLC, we will be by your side if the negligent or careless acts of a medical professional cause you harm.
When you need a Charlotte compartment syndrome attorney, we will work to secure compensation for the following:
- Compensation for all medical expenses related to the error(s)
- Coverage of lost income and benefits if you cannot work
- Loss of enjoyment of life damages
- Pain and suffering damages
- Punitive damages against the healthcare provider/agency responsible
Do not wait another minute. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling us at 800-948-0577.
