Spinal Abscess and Infection

Could This Result From Medical Negligence?

A spinal abscess and infection is a serious medical condition that requires a swift diagnosis and treatment. If left untreated, it can result in potential life-changing complications such as paralysis.

While the prevalence of spinal infections is relatively low, this can present a significant risk to affected individuals. If this infection was a result of medical negligence, you may be entitled to pursue a claim for compensation.

Regarding a claim, Jefferies Claim may be able to help. It is important to know that we work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Fee, No Win’ basis.

Causes of Spinal Abscess and Infection

A spinal abscess is a collection of pus in the spinal canal, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It may also be caused by fungi or a tuberculosis infection.

Spinal infections can arise from various sources, including:

Bacteria traveling through the bloodstream from a distant infection, such as urinary tract infections or pneumonia.

Direct inoculation following spinal surgery, injections, or invasive spinal procedures.

Infection spread from adjacent infected tissue or bone.

Medical conditions such as diabetes, intravenous drug use, and immunosuppressive conditions, such as HIV and cancer, can increase susceptibility.

What Is Medical Negligence?

Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails in their duty of care, resulting in avoidable harm to a patient. In the context of spinal abscess and infection, negligence may include:

Failure to Diagnose and Treat Promptly: Delayed diagnosis of a spinal abscess can lead to irreversible damage. Early symptoms may be dismissed as minor back pain, delaying necessary investigations such as MRI scans and blood tests.

Surgical Errors: Infections can result from poor surgical techniques, inadequate sterilisation, or failure to administer relevant antibiotics before surgery.

Improper Post-Operative Care: If post-operative infections are not efficiently managed, they can lead to severe complications.

Inadequate Management of Pre-Existing Conditions: Patients with risk factors, such as diabetes or immunosuppression, require careful monitoring to prevent infections.

Red Flags Indicating Spinal Abscess or Infection

Early recognition of symptoms is important and key warning signs include:

Severe Back Pain: Persistent and worsening pain that does not improve with rest.

Fever and Chills: Indicative of an ongoing infection.

Neurological Deficits: Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the limbs, which may progress to paralysis.

Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction: Loss of bladder or bowel control can indicate severe spinal cord compression.

Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue: General signs of an infection.

Pain That Worsens at Night: A distinguishing factor from mechanical back pain.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a spinal abscess can involve MRI scans, blood tests and sometimes even a biopsy of infectious tissue to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment typically involves intravenous antibiotics for several weeks. However in case of a severe abscess, surgical drainage may be required. Following treatment, pain management and rehabilitation may be required.

Claim For Compensation

Victims of medical negligence leading to spinal infections may be entitled to compensation. It will need to be proved that the breach directly resulted in harm to the patient. Other factors look at whether the standard of care provided fell below an acceptable medical standard. Damages typically include physical and emotional harm and financial losses.

If you or a loved one has suffered suffer harm due to delayed diagnosis, surgical errors, or inadequate post-operative care, you may have grounds for a claim. Jefferies Claims can guide you through a potential claim. We work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.  Call us today at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Page to discuss your potential claim.