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Can A Broken Collarbone Be Missed?
Common Causes and Clinical Negligence
A broken collarbone is a common injury which can be caused playing high risk sports, in car crashes and even by falling, so can a broken collarbone be missed after x-rays ? This type of injury is generally diagnosed through an x-ray and physical examination. However, errors can occur, and if a broken collarbone is not diagnosed, you may be able to claim clinical negligence.
You may have grounds for a clinical negligence claim if a missed diagnosis leads to prolonged suffering or complications. However, you will have to be able to show that the misdiagnosis resulted in significant harm. Getting legal advice is crucial for a medical negligence claim so that your case can be properly assessed.
If you are seeking compensation, Jefferies Claims may be able to help. We work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.
When Can a Broken Collarbone Be Missed?
A broken collarbone may be missed due to various circumstances. This may include swelling around the collarbone may obscure the fracture, the bone remains aligned or the x-ray is misread by a medical professional.
If you continued to experience pain but were not given a follow-up X-ray or CT scan, a previously undiagnosed fracture may go unnoticed for an extended period.
Activities That Commonly Cause a Broken Collarbone
Clavicle fractures typically occur due to direct trauma or indirect force transmitted through the arm. Some of the most common causes include:
Sports Injuries
Contact sports such as rugby, football, and hockey can lead to clavicle fractures due to direct hits and falls.
Cycling accidents, particularly falling over the handlebars, are a common cause.
Skateboarding and snowboarding also present a high risk of clavicle fractures due to falls.
Falls
Falling on an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder is one of the most common ways to break a collarbone.
Older adults are particularly vulnerable due to reduced bone density. This results in them being more prone to fractures from minor falls.
Road Accidents
Car crashes, motorcycle accidents, and bicycle collisions often result in high-impact forces to the shoulder, leading to clavicle fractures.
Seatbelt trauma across the shoulder in an accident can also contribute to a broken collarbone.
Workplace Accidents
Construction workers, warehouse staff, and others in physically demanding jobs may suffer clavicle fractures from falling objects, slips, or machinery-related incidents.
Birth Injuries
In new born babies, clavicle fractures can occur during difficult deliveries, particularly if the baby is delivered via forceps or vacuum extraction.
Clinical Negligence and A Duty of Care
Medical professionals have a duty of care to correctly diagnose and treat injuries. However, mistakes can be made. If a broken collarbone is not diagnosed, you may be able to claim clinical negligence.
You must be able to prove that the failure to diagnose the fracture directly led to harm. This may include prolonged pain, improper healing, the need for surgery or even a long-term disability.
You should also be able to show that you suffered losses due to the misdiagnosis. This may include additional medical costs, lost wages or a reduced quality of life.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Negligence
If you believe a broken collarbone was missed due to clinical negligence, you need to gather evidence of your symptoms such as persistent pain. Request a second opinion or additional imaging such as a CT scan.
Gather copies of your x-rays and any documentation related to your treatment. Also obtain proof of any financial losses.
Medical negligence claims can be complicated and it is essential that you consult with an experienced lawyer in this field. Jefferies Claims partner with lawyers who can assess your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.
Contact us today at 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our expert team.