Our specialist medical negligence lawyers have extensive experience with claims involving orthopaedic negligence.
Orthopaedics is the medical specialty that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments. Orthopaedic surgeons perform surgeries such as repairing broken or fractured bones, joint replacements and ligament reconstructions. They may also treat patients for diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
In our experience, some of the most common examples of negligence in the treatment by orthopaedic surgeons include:
- Leg lengthening post total hip replacement
- Leg shortening post total hip replacement
- Creation of a valgus (outward angle) deformity post total knee replacement
- Creation of a varus (inward angle) deformity post total knee replacement
- Failure to appropriately modify prosthetics used during a joint replacement
- Failure to take into account pre-existing conditions (such as sciatica) during a joint replacement
- Intra-operative error resulting in cauda equina syndrome
- Intra-operative error resulting in neural compromise
- Failure to diagnose orthopaedic disorders
- Failure to properly warn patients of surgical risks
- Errors involving pre-operative anaesthesia
- Failure to take proper steps to avoid post-operative infection
Orthopaedic negligence claims are common. According to a report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare on the prevalence of medical negligence claims between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008, orthopaedic negligence claims were the fourth most common type of claim after obstetric, emergency and general surgery claims. Of those orthoptic negligence claims, 50% were in relation to procedures which were allegedly performed below an acceptable standard of care.
These statistics are consistent with the experience of our medical negligence solicitors even in more recent years.
Our medical negligence solicitors understand that when a person suffers an injury as a result of orthopaedic negligence, they often have to deal with more than just pain and a prolonged recovery. For many, their injuries have a significant impact on their ability to earn an income, perform household tasks, care for their children or grandchildren, participate in activities they enjoy and/or exercise. They may also incur treatment expenses including analgesics, cortisone injections, orthotics, physiotherapy and/or corrective surgery.
Our medical negligence solicitors have successfully resolved many orthopaedic negligence cases. We pride ourselves on making sure that we fully take into account the impact of our client’s injuries and disabilities in preparing their claims. If you have had an adverse outcome following orthopaedic surgery or treatment, we would be pleased to meet with you to discuss how we may be able to assist you on a no-win no-fee basis. You can either book an appointment online or call us on (02) 4050 0330 for a no obligation consultation to discuss your potential claim.
