Overview

Blood Clot or DVT Claims

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a very serious condition that can in some cases be life-threatening. If you develop this illness as a result of Medical Negligence, Jackson Lees can help you make a DVT claim.

We have acted for many clients who have experienced Medical Negligence that related to DVT claims. We have over 25 years of Medical Negligence experience.

If you think you may have a Medical Negligence claim, we can take your case on under a conditional fee agreement, also known as ‘no win, no fee’.

We offer a free of charge initial consultation and we can visit you at home or out of hours if this is more convenient.

Call us today on 0151 282 1700 or fill out our online enquiry form, a member of our team will be able to assist you.

What is DVT?

DVT is caused by a clot developing in a blood vessel, most frequently in the leg. If this condition is misdiagnosed, missed or not treated properly, the clot can block blood circulation to other parts of the body and this can cause significant damage to a patient’s health.

One of the biggest risks is that part of the clot breaks away and gets into the lungs, which can cause a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism (PE).

DVT can affect various patients, including those who are left immobilised for a long period of time, particularly those who are obese, dehydrated or have a history of problems with their veins.

When Can You Claim?

If your medical treatment requires you to remain immobile for a long period of time, your medical team should ensure steps are taken to guard against associated conditions such as DVT and bedsores.

These can include pressure stockings, blood-thinning drugs and even something as simple as ensuring you are encouraged to move. If medical staff fail to provide appropriate care, this can have serious consequences for your health.

Additionally, we can also assist with a DVT claim if you develop the condition and are misdiagnosed by a medical professional. This can place you in a much worse position later on, making your Deep Vein Thrombosis much more difficult to treat.

Case Study

At Jackson Lees, we have dealt with a number of cases where clients have developed a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or blood clot, as a result of the medical treatment that they have received.

Some cases relate to the procedures that have been performed, or to the types of medication provided and the level of mobilisation that was possible for the patient, and it may be necessary to assess the risks and benefits of various options that the treating medical team had available, in order to decide if particular treatment options provided or omitted represented negligence on their part.

The consequences of DVT can be significant, and have lasting effects for the patient.

In one case, we acted for a client who had suffered a fall, which resulted in fractures to his lower leg. The hospital initially proposed to treat his injuries with an external fixator device, which would have allowed him to mobilise during the recovery period, but this plan was not followed, and the client underwent an alternative procedure which meant he was in a plaster cast for a number of weeks.

He subsequently developed a DVT, amongst other problems, and was left with post thrombotic limb syndrome and a tight Achilles tendon, which caused ongoing problems. He was left unable to stand or walk for any significant period, as this caused the lower leg to swell and become painful. This restricted his day to day life considerably, and he had to give up his job. He also faced the risk of further DVTs developing in the future, with a possible risk of amputation.

After an intensive investigation, we were able to obtain expert evidence which supported negligence on the part of his treating doctors, and were also able to assess the financial consequences of this, in terms of his present and future needs, which included the need for adapted accommodation.

The case eventually settled for £180,000, plus such benefits as had to be repaid to the DWP.

Not all cases involving DVT are so complex, but it is important that the solicitors dealing with such claims are aware of the extent and nature of such claims, and the long lasting complications that such clients may be left with. At Jackson Lees, we have a good understanding of such issues, and access to a number of experienced medico-legal experts who are able to assess the medical issues carefully, allowing us to ensure that such cases are investigated thoroughly and appropriately.

Our Expertise

The Medical Negligence solicitors at Jackson Lees have over 25 years of experience in helping patients establish the facts behind their case, including in relation to DVT claims. Whether you have suffered yourself or wish to help a loved one, our team are dedicated to helping you do the right thing in the right way.

We know exactly the sort of questions that need to be asked in order to ensure all the relevant evidence is highlighted, helping you achieve a successful claim.

If you think you may have a claim, it’s important to be aware that there are time limits for making a claim.

You may also find our knowledge hub useful, including our article ‘do you need Clinical Negligence advice?’.

Our work has been accredited by the Law Society and Action Against Medical Accidents (AvMA), so call us today on 0151 282 1700 or fill in our online enquiry form to discuss your DVT case.