Osteomyelitis

What is Osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis is the medical term for a bone infection, usually caused by bacteria.

It most commonly affects the long bones in the legs.

What are the symptoms of Osteomyelitis?

Symptoms may include a high temperature, bone pain, and swelling, redness and a warm sensation in the affected area.

Why does it happen?

There are 2 ways an infection can occur: –

• following an injury, for example, a fractured bone;
• via the bloodstream.

Are there any complications?

If not treated quickly osteomyelitis can become chronic and the bones can become permanently damaged resulting in persistent pain and loss of function.

How Osteomyelitis is treated?

If diagnosed promptly osteomyelitis can be treated with a course of antibiotics.

In severe cases or where the condition is not diagnosed promptly surgery may be required in order to remove damaged bone.

Osteomyelitis claims

Many complications can arise from failing to diagnose or treat osteomyelitis. For example, if the blood supply to the bone is severely reduced this can cause the tissue to die. Amputation may be used as a last resort in this situation. However, the condition can usually be treated before it reaches that stage.

Osteomyelitis claims usually involve one or more of the following: –

• A delay in diagnosis;
• A delay in providing treatment;
• Failure or delay in carrying out at CT or MRI scan;
• A delay in arranging Hospital admission.

How can we help?

At Novum Law we offer free initial advice on claims of this kind. If you believe that you or any member of your family have a potential claim then let us assess your case. You can rest assured that we will deal with your enquiry without any initial cost or obligation.