Suffering a brain injury can be both serious and life changing. Whilst some brain injuries are temporary, many are permanent and can lead to a wide variety of both physical and cognitive difficulties for the person concerned. The effect of the injury will not only touch the lives of the injured but also those of their family and loved ones.
Brain injuries acquired through clinical negligence often fall into these categories:-
Injuries acquired at birth
A lack of oxygen to a baby’s brain during pregnancy, their birth or in the early stages afterwards can cause Cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of disorders which may affect a person in different ways. Sufferers’ symptoms include lack of muscle control, co-ordination and balance. They may also experience difficulties with hearing, speech and learning. The condition is life-long and permanent.
Delay or misdiagnosis of Illness
A failure to diagnose an illness, condition or disease, or a delay in obtaining that diagnosis, can lead to serious consequences including brain injury. Difficulties associated with even mild traumatic brain injury (where the symptoms of loss of consciousness and confusion last for less than 30 minutes) are often overlooked, yet this type of brain injury can lead to persistent problems which include fatigue, headaches and memory loss.
Anaesthetic claims
When anaesthesia is administered, it must be monitored carefully throughout the operation as its effects can be unpredictable and a patient must be constantly observed for signs of distress. Failing to appropriately monitor or swiftly respond to changes in the patient can result in serious brain injury or death of the patient.
Overdose of medication
In circumstances where the incorrect dose of medication is prescribed or given, or where the medication itself is inappropriate for the treatment required, brain injury, as well as other serious injuries, are recognised as a potential consequence.
Where mistakes are made, our medical negligence solicitors can help you with a claim for compensation.
For more information read our FAQ on Acquired Brain Injuries.
