Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins inside of a person’s body. DVT typically occurs in the legs, thighs, or pelvis. This type of medical emergency can lead to long-lasting or permanent disabilities for a victim. DVT can even cause death. In some cases, DVT is caused by medical negligence. Here, we want to discuss how this can occur and what you can do if you believe your DVT was caused by a medical mistake.
How Does a DVT Occur?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form in a deep vein, typically in a person’s lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. This can be an incredibly dangerous condition, particularly when the blood clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
DVT can develop if a person has certain medical conditions that affect how their blood clots. This can also occur if a person does not move for a long period of time or if they are confined to the bed.
How can a Medical Mistake Cause DVT?
There are various ways that medical negligence can cause DVT or lead to DVT going undiagnosed. In most cases, the complications of a DVT result in extreme pain, redness, and swelling in an extremity. However, DVT can be asymptomatic, meaning there are no obvious symptoms.
In some cases, DVT can occur in the aftermath of a surgical operation. Lying in bed can cause the blood to lie idle inside of a person’s veins. When this is a risk, doctors or surgeons should ensure that a patient has elastic stockings on their legs that compress superficial veins, leading to more blood flow throughout the deep veins of the lower extremities.
Patients at risk of DVT after an operation or medical procedure should also receive adequate exercise at the behest of nurses and doctors. Exercise will lead to a faster blood flow through a patient’s veins, thereby limiting the risk of DVT.
Finally, doctors should be aware of all patient conditions and order blood thinners when necessary to reduce the risk of clotting.
Medical professionals should understand that, aside from surgical procedures and prolonged periods of inactivity, these other factors increase the risk of DVT for patients:
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Advanced age
- Kidney problems
- Various cancers
- A history of DVT
When there is an increased risk of DVT due to a surgical procedure or scheduled inactivity such as bed rest, a doctor will need to evaluate each patient’s risk of developing DVT prior to the procedure in order to determine appropriate post-operative care.
Can You Secure Compensation for this Case?
If you or somebody you care about has suffered from DVT due to a medical mistake or medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. If a medical malpractice lawsuit is successful, patients may be entitled to coverage for:
- All medical expenses related to the DVT
- Lost income if a victim cannot work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of personal enjoyment damages
The total amount of compensation available in these cases will vary depending on factors related to each particular situation. A skilled medical malpractice attorney in Chicago will have the resources and legal experience necessary to help you move forward on the best path for your case.