You thought the initial injury was bad enough. A broken bone or other trauma to an extremity is painful, but treatable. What you may not have thought of is the risk of compartment syndrome, a condition that has a major set of risks.

You see, compartment syndrome is a major medical emergency that needs to be diagnosed and treated promptly to reduce the risk of muscle and tissue damage in patients. While most cases of compartment syndrome happen because of a traumatic accident, there are times when medical professionals are negligent in their duties and either fail to diagnose the condition or actually cause it themselves.

When you need a Camden compartment syndrome attorney, The Weitz Firm, LLC will be by your side. We will work to recover the compensation you deserve.

How It Happens

Any time there is a trauma to the body, particularly to the extremities, medical professionals need to be on the lookout for compartment syndrome. The condition occurs when the pressure inside the muscles, usually around the trauma, builds to dangerous levels and cuts off the blood flow to the area. This deprives the surrounding muscle and nerve tissue of oxygen and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent damage.

The only way to relieve this pressure is to perform a fasciotomy, which involves cutting into the muscle to immediately relieve the pressure.

How do healthcare professionals make this condition worse?

  • In a trauma, doctors and nurses should always perform a full patient assessment an be aware of all injuries. If they suspect compartment syndrome, it should be treated. Failing to notice this condition quickly can lead to permanent damage.
  • Often, blood flow to a part of a person’s body is halted during surgery. When blood flow is restored, there is a risk of compartment syndrome.
  • Doctors need to be aware that patients on blood thinners are at higher risk of compartment syndrome. If they fail to perform a full patient history, including knowing what medications a patient is on, they are not operating with the knowledge they need for success.
  • Though less common, a cast or bandage applied too tightly can lead to compartment syndrome.

When it comes to compartment syndrome, symptoms usually develop within 30 minutes of an injury, but it can take as long as two hours. This is the time that medical professionals need to be most aware of potential problems.

What To Do Now

The Weitz Firm, LLC does not chase responsible healthcare professionals, we hold negligent ones accountable. When it comes to compartment syndrome, we know that a failure to diagnose the condition can lead to permanent disabilities. We also know there are times when surgeons, doctors, and nurses actually cause the condition. We know how difficult this medical emergency has been on you and we want to help. When you need a medical malpractice attorney in Camden, The Weitz Firm, LLC is standing by. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 267-587-6240.

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