Medical Malpractice and Spinal Cord Injuries

An injury to the spinal cord is a serious infliction that can be extremely painful and even catastrophic.

Most spinal cord injuries are the result of major trauma, such as a car accident, but some are caused by a surgeon’s error. If you are now experiencing a great deal of back pain or are paralyzed after a back surgery procedure, contact a qualified St. Louis medical malpractice attorney and let him decide if the injury was a result of the physician’s negligence. If so, you deserve to be compensated for the pain and suffering you must now endure.

Pain and Suffering From Spinal Cord Injuries

In the state of Missouri, a surgeon pierced the covering of a patient’s spinal cord while using a high speed drill. The patient was left with partial paralysis of his lower extremities and extreme back pain. This medical malpractice case went all the way to trial, where a jury found the surgeon to be negligent in his care of the patient and ordered an award of $770,000.

A spinal cord injury can be catastrophic and affects not only the life and future of the patient, but that of the family as well. There are many things to take into consideration after a spinal cord injury, such as the ensuing medical treatment, possible related illnesses, and problems such as respiratory issues and future care. The cost of ongoing medical treatment is a big factor in spinal cord injury cases.

Loss of Quality of Life

In addition, the loss of quality of life is to be considered. Many spinal cord injury victims are young and active members of the community. They may be the main providers for their family and lead active lives. All of that suddenly changes, and the future of an entire family is at stake. A St. Louis medical malpractice attorney will look into the life of the plaintiff before the devastating surgery and use that as a basis for collecting compensation for the entire family.

Emotional and Psychological Damages

Another issue that is often seen after a patient is left paralyzed are emotional and psychological disorders. The sudden and unexplained loss of motor function leaves many patients feeling depressed and overwhelmed. They worry about their future as well as the future of their loved ones. Treatment for mental impairments should also be included in a medical malpractice claim if the patient is having difficulty adjusting to their paralysis.

These are complicated cases that raise a myriad of issues unique to the extent of the injury. If you or someone you love has recently had back surgery and now feel more pain or have lost motor functions, contact our law firm today at (314) 588-7200.

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