Injuries to the spinal cord from surgery or other medical issues can be life-changing incidents that can cause paralysis and chronic pain, as well as leaving patients to depend on friends and family to carry out everyday tasks.

We recognise the impact spinal injuries have on both the individual and their family. We provide professional advice and expertise to aim to secure interim payments whilst the investigation into the claim continues, which will assist with rehabilitation, equipment and counselling.

There are four sections to the spine which may be affected:

Cervical – This is the section at the top of the spinal cord. Injuries here can be extremely serious and can have significant impact across the whole body.

Thoracic – This section is below the cervical spine and runs from the top of the ribcage to the lower part of the back.

Lumbar – The lumbar spine sits underneath the thoracic section, between the diaphragm and the sacrum.

Sacral – This is the bottom end of the spinal cord, running from the pelvis to the end of the spine. Injuries here most commonly affect your legs and hips.

We can provide a wealth of experience in dealing with spinal injury claims, including:

• Delay or misdiagnosis of Cauda Equina syndrome
• Delay or misdiagnosis of nerve damage or damage to discs or vascular lesions
• Failing to carry out appropriate assessments pre-operatively to determine potential surgical complications
• Failing to inform the patient of the risks associated with surgery, and to provide them with alternative treatment options
• Failing to refer patients for the necessary post-operative care
• Adopting an incorrect surgical technique

Further information from a Spinal cord injuries: bringing a claim blog can be read here.

you believe you may have suffered as a result of negligence then Burnetts have specialist medical negligence solicitors, who are accredited by The Law Society and AvMA, who can investigate your claim and help secure compensation.