Spinal cord damage due to orthopaedic negligence

What is spinal cord damage due to orthopaedic negligence?

Spinal cord damage due to orthopaedic negligence occurs when a patient's spinal cord is harmed as a direct result of substandard medical care provided by orthopaedic surgeons or medical staff involved in spinal treatment. The spine is highly sensitive, and errors during diagnosis, surgery or post-operative care can lead to permanent nerve damage, paralysis or impaired mobility. Common causes of this type of negligence include:

• Errors during spinal surgery procedures, such as spinal decompression or fusion surgery
• Delayed or misdiagnosis of spinal conditions such as fractures, herniated discs or infections
• Poor technique or improper use of surgical instruments during procedures
• Failure to identify or manage post-operative complications promptly and effectively
• Failure to gain appropriate informed consent relating to risks of spinal treatment

If you believe you have suffered spinal cord injury or damage due to negligent orthopaedic care, you may be entitled to compensation.

Can you claim compensation for spinal cord damage due to orthopaedic negligence?

If your spinal cord damage was caused wholly or partly by clinical negligence, whether involving treatment from the NHS or a private healthcare provider, you may have grounds to make a claim. To successfully claim compensation, our specialist solicitors will need to demonstrate clearly that:

• A duty of care existed between you and your medical practitioner or hospital
• There was a breach in the standard of care you received (the care fell below accepted medical standards)
• The breach directly caused your spinal cord damage or injury
• You suffered harm or losses as a result of the negligence, such as pain, disability, loss of income, medical expenses or care costs

Claims usually need to be initiated within three years from the date you became aware of the negligent treatment. Due to the complexity and medical detail involved, engaging an experienced legal team at Stephensons early in the process can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Why choose us for your spinal cord damage claim?

At Stephensons, our dedicated medical negligence solicitors have decades of combined experience handling complex spinal injury claims. We recognise the sensitive nature of these cases and approach each claim with compassion, discretion, and expertise.

Stephensons Solicitors LLP is proudly accredited by the Law Society’s Clinical Negligence Accreditation Scheme, and we hold a Lexcel accreditation for excellence in legal practice management. Our solicitors have a proven track record in successfully securing compensation for spinal injury patients and their families, understanding fully the significant ongoing costs involved. We are committed to delivering clear, honest, and professional advice every step of the way, and wherever possible, we work on a no-win, no-fee basis to ensure our services are accessible.

How we can help

When you instruct Stephensons, our dedicated medical negligence team will:

• Provide an initial free consultation to discuss the circumstances of your case
• Conduct a thorough investigation and gather vital medical evidence to build a robust claim
• Engage independent spinal cord injury experts to support your claim
• Clearly explain the entire legal process and keep you informed throughout
• Strive to secure interim compensation payments wherever possible to support your immediate expenses and care needs
• Act on your behalf to negotiate settlements or represent you in court, ensuring your interests are always protected

At every stage, our goal is to secure the maximum compensation settlement available, covering your current and future needs to help you rebuild your life.

Contact our expert spinal injury solicitors today

If you or a loved one have suffered spinal cord damage as a result of orthopaedic negligence, it is crucial to seek specialist legal advice promptly. Contact our trusted solicitors at Stephensons today by calling 0161 696 6165, or fill in our online enquiry form and we will call you back. Our expert legal team is here to offer you supportive guidance and tailored advice from the outset.

Frequently asked questions

What can I claim compensation for?

A successful spinal cord negligence claim may cover compensation for pain and suffering, loss of earnings, medical treatment and rehabilitation costs, home adaptations, and ongoing care expenses.

How long will my spinal injury negligence claim take?

Each case is unique, and the timeline varies depending on complexity, severity, and whether liability is contested. Typically, these claims take several years, but Stephensons will keep you fully updated throughout the process.

Can I claim if my procedure happened privately?

Yes, you have a right to claim compensation if your spinal cord injury resulted from negligent care provided by a private medical practitioner or NHS clinician.

Are there any upfront costs?

Many of our claims are handled on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning there are no upfront legal costs. We will explain this clearly during your initial consultation.