Fractures, or broken bones, are common injuries that typically result from trauma such as falls or direct impacts. While most fractures are diagnosed and treated appropriately, some are unfortunately missed or misdiagnosed by healthcare professionals. Missed fractures can lead to significant long-term complications and suffering. Understanding how these errors occur and knowing the steps to take for making a medical negligence claim can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Fracture Types and Most Common Fractures
Fractures come in a variety of types, each requiring different treatments. The most common fractures include:
- Clavicle Fractures (Collarbone)
- Forearm Fractures (Radius and Ulna)
- Ankle Fractures
- Wrist Fractures/Scaphoid Fractures
- Hip Fractures
Commonly Missed Fractures
Certain types of fractures are more prone to being missed due to their nature or location. Commonly missed fractures include:
- Scaphoid Fractures: These wrist fractures can be difficult to detect on initial X-rays.
- Hip Fractures: Especially in older adults, symptoms may be attributed to other causes.
- Stress Fractures: These tiny cracks in bones may not show up on standard imaging immediately.
It’s important to note that each potential claim is judged on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, sometimes fractures are missed aren’t missed as a result of negligence but are difficult to diagnose instead. For more information on this you can contact us to learn more.
Why Fractures Get Missed
Fractures may be missed for several reasons, including:
- Failure to Take a Proper History: Not thoroughly understanding the mechanism of injury or noting pre-existing conditions that may affect bone strength.
- Diagnostic Errors: Misinterpreting the injury as a soft tissue issue rather than a fracture
- Radiology Reporting Inadequacies: Missing the fracture on imaging scans
- Inappropriate/lack of Referral for Imaging: Not ordering the appropriate imaging tests in the first place. This could mean not getting imaging when it is required, or obtaining the incorrect type of imaging (e.g. USS instead of x-ray)
- Inadequate Follow-up: Failing to refer the patient to more experienced colleagues or for further diagnostic procedures when necessary.
A potential missed diagnosis claim only exists if a fracture should have been diagnosed, but negligence resulted. If you’ve got any queries about this, or any part of your medical negligence claim, then you can contact us for a free consultation regarding your claim.
The Impact of a Missed Fracture
Missing a fracture can lead to various complications such as:
- Displacement of the Fracture
- Damage to Surrounding Soft Tissues
- Vascular or Nerve Damage
- Permanent Disability: Such as chronic pain or limited mobility.
These complications often necessitate further medical procedures and extend recovery times, which could have been avoided with an accurate initial diagnosis.
For more information on the necessary steps you’ll have to take when making a medical negligence claim, you can contact us to learn more.
Compensation for Missed Fracture Claims
Compensation for missed fracture claims can cover various financial losses, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs of past and future treatments related to the missed fracture.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Loss of Earnings: If the injury has impacted your ability to work.
- Care and Assistance: Costs of additional care and assistance required due to the injury.
It’s important to recognise that you’ll only receive compensation after making a successful medical negligence claim. To do this, you’ll have to prove that negligence from a medical professional resulted in you suffering. For more information on this you can
Contact Us
Commonly missed fractures can lead to serious and avoidable complications. If you believe that medical negligence contributed to a missed fracture, seeking legal advice promptly is essential. A successful claim can provide the financial support needed to manage the consequences of the injury. For expert legal advice and support, visit Medical Negligence Solutions. Our team is happy to help you navigate your way through medical negligence claims and ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve.
