Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
Deep vein thrombosis is usually referred to as DVT; it occurs when a blood clot (located in a deep vein, usually in the leg) becomes extremely painful and causes swelling. As a condition it can be debilitating to the sufferer, however its negative elements can cause it to become a precursor to more serious conditions if not addressed. DVT affects approximately one person in every thousand, with older individuals being considered far more susceptible to the condition. Those most at risk include those who have suffered with or have a family history of the following:
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Thrombosis
Those who spend a lot of time idle or immobile are also considered to have an increased risk.
Even though DVT is painful, it is what it can lead to which means it needs treating sooner rather than later. DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism if not addressed early. A pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot in the bloodstream travels towards the lungs and blocks the blood vessel in the pulmonary artery. Such vessel is a pivotal part in the operation of the body, as it carries blood between the heart and lungs. When blocked a pulmonary embolism and occur, which is a life threatening and possibly fatal condition. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include:
• Breathlessness
• Chest pain
• Internal bleeding
• Elevated heart rate
• Fever
• Light-headedness
If a person is suffering from DVT, which has worsened to a pulmonary embolism, then upon further diagnosis the term Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) may be used. DVT, VTE and pulmonary embolism are all very serious and should be treated correctly, however in some instances this doesn’t always happen, which is where medical negligence can often occur.
Medical negligence
Medical negligence is a term that gets thrown around a lot in the 21st century, with the reason being that even in this day and age cases of such are still on the rise. The annual figures make for alarming reading and the fact that such instances still occur in spite of the modernisation of the medical industry is worrying. Even though human error is something that does happen, when it occurs in an NHS hospital or private medical establishment it can lead to something harmful and possibly even fatal occurring.
From a victim’s perspective medical negligence is nothing to be embarrassed about. There are steps you can take and support on hand should you wish to claim compensation for what has happened. The financial compensation may not make up for distress and discomfort felt, but it is something that can mean what has been perpetrated upon you doesn’t leave you out of pocket.
DVT, VTE and pulmonary embolism are no different to other hospital treated conditions in sense that negligence can occur, even when under professional care. It doesn’t matter where the negligence occurs, whether it is during diagnosis, treatment or anywhere in-between, those responsible can be held accountable. When it comes to DVT related conditions, there are several types of neglect that will be more common than others. These include failure to carry out a proper risk assessment or an unnecessary delay in the diagnosis of the condition. Such may have or could have led to further complications and put you at risk. Instances such as this are prime examples of when medial negligence has taken place and putting a compensation claim forward may be advised.
Making a DVT compensation claim
If you believe that you have been subjected to negligence by a medical professional or medical establishment, then should look to put forward a claim for compensation. The thing to remember is that you should not be alone in your claim, you should make sure that you have a knowledgeable and reliable medical compensation claim solicitor by your side during the entire process. Having such will provide you with the legal support you need and it is advised that you choose a solicitor who has experience in handling DVT and VTE medical negligence claims. The reason for this is because they will understand what constitutes a strong claim and how best to get the ball rolling. If after discussing your case with you, your solicitor believes that your claim is valid, they can advise you on how to gather evidence (such as medical information) and how to move your claim forward. From start to finish a medical negligence claim can take years, so patience is key and its particular important therefore to get your claim up and running sooner rather than later.
Speak to us
There are plenty of solicitors out there who will take on your case, but it’s important that you get a specialist medical negligence solicitor. Here at Bonallack and Bishop, we have medical negligence specialists solicitors who offer a FREE no obligation phone call and a FREE initial meeting. This will help us get know you and your case and gives us a chance to see how strong your cases – all at no cost to you.
Finding the right solicitor for your claim
When looking for the right solicitor to handle your case, call our team first. Our team includes members of both of the leading specialist medical negligence panels [run by the law society and patient campaigning justice charity AvMA], so we really know the field.
What’s more, we routinely run medical negligence cases using no win no fee agreements – so you don’t need to worry about paying your legal costs.
Thinking of making a DVT compensation claim? Contact our experts now
Don’t let worries and concerns stop you from putting your claim for medical negligence forward. Contact us and we will be happy to talk you through your case and how we can help you win the compensation you deserve.
- Call our compensation claims solicitors now on 0800 1404544, or
- Complete the enquiry form below.
