What is vascular negligence?

Vascular surgery is a critical medical field dedicated to treating conditions affecting the blood vessels, arteries, and veins. While many surgeries are successful and life-saving, unfortunately, there are instances where negligence occurs, leading to devastating consequences for patients.

When can vascular negligence occur?

Vascular surgery negligence refers to situations where medical professionals fail to meet the standard of care expected in the field of vascular surgery, resulting in harm to the patient. This negligence can manifest in various forms, including

  • Surgical Error: During a vascular surgery procedure, the surgeon accidentally nicks or damages a nearby artery, causing excessive bleeding, require transfusions and requiring additional corrective surgery to repair the damage.
  • Misdiagnosis: A patient presents with symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD), such as leg pain and numbness. However, for example, the healthcare provider misdiagnoses the condition as musculoskeletal pain and delays necessary vascular interventions, resulting in the progression of PAD and increased risk of complications such as limb ischemia or amputation.
  • Medication Error: Following vascular surgery, a patient is prescribed anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clots. However, for example, the nurse administers the incorrect dosage of the medication, leading to either ineffective clot prevention or an increased risk of bleeding complications.
  • Lack of Informed Consent: For example, prior to undergoing vascular surgery to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the patient is not adequately informed about the risks associated with the procedure, including the potential for nerve damage. Consequently, when complications arise post-surgery, the patient feels they were not adequately prepared for the risks involved.
  • Postoperative Negligence: For example, after undergoing vascular surgery to repair a blocked artery in the leg, the patient experiences signs of infection at the surgical site, such as redness, swelling, and discharge. However, the healthcare team fails to promptly recognise and treat the infection, leading to sepsis and the need for additional surgical interventions. 

What are examples of vascular disorders and diseases?

These are just a few examples of vascular disorders and diseases, and there are many other conditions that can affect the blood vessels in the body. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment if you suspect you may have a vascular problem. Here are some examples:

  • Atherosclerosis: This condition involves the build-up of plaque inside arteries, leading to narrowing and hardening of the arteries. It can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): High blood pressure can damage blood vessels over time, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health issues.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked by plaque, leading to decreased blood flow to the legs and feet. This can result in pain, numbness, and other symptoms, and can increase the risk of infections and tissue damage.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of the body, usually in the legs. If a clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency.
  • Varicose Veins: These are enlarged, twisted veins that usually occur in the legs and feet. They can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling, and may lead to complications such as blood clots or skin ulcers.
  • Aneurysm: An aneurysm is a bulge or weakening of a blood vessel wall, which can occur in arteries or veins. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause life-threatening bleeding.
  • Raynaud's Disease: This condition causes the small arteries in the fingers and toes to narrow, usually in response to cold temperatures or stress. It can lead to numbness, pain, and colour changes in the affected areas.
  • Vasculitis: Vasculitis is inflammation of the blood vessels, which can affect arteries, veins, and capillaries. It can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on which blood vessels are affected, including fatigue, fever, joint pain, and organ damage.

Why Pursue a Personal Injury Claim?

There are several compelling reasons to consider pursuing a compensation claim for injury:

  • Financial relief: Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, assistance products, therapy and ongoing care can be significant. A successful compensation claim can help you cover these expenses, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment and support.
  • Loss of income: negligence can result in temporary or permanent disability, affecting your ability to work and earn a living. Compensation can provide financial stability in such situations. Pension also requires to be considered.
  • Rehabilitation and therapy: Ongoing rehabilitation and therapy is often necessary for negligence patients to regain their quality of life. Compensation can cover these vital services.
  • Pain and suffering: Negligence can lead to immense physical and emotional suffering. Pursuing a compensation claim can help address the pain and suffering you or your loved one has endured. Injury to your psychological wellbeing also needs considered.
  • Holding responsible parties accountable: If your injury resulted from the negligence or intentional actions of another party, seeking compensation is a way to hold them accountable and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Compensation Routes

We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and discuss your legal options. Our solicitors understand the complex and long-lasting challenges posed by negligence. 

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