Brain Aneurysm Negligence
If a brain aneurysm is not detected or treated when it should otherwise have been, the consequences can be very serious. If this has happened to you or somebody that you know, you may be able to make a claim in order to compensate for the pain and suffering caused. The clinical negligence team at JMW is here to provide the support and advice you need to give you the very best chance of a successful outcome.
Speak to a member of the team about your brain aneurysm negligence claim today by calling us on 0800 054 6512 or by completing our online enquiry form. We can discuss your situation in more depth and provide the assurances you need.
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Brain Aneurysm Explained
Subarachnoid haemorrhage is a type of brain injury that involves a sudden leak of blood from a ruptured artery in the brain. The leak most often occurs into the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain and spinal cord and the cause is usually a brain aneurysm, which is a weakness in a blood vessel wall combined with the pressure of the circulating blood. The higher the blood pressure, the greater the risk of a weakened vessel bursting.
Symptoms
It is rare for an aneurysm to be detected before it starts to leak. The initial symptom is usually a sudden, intense headache that lasts for more than an hour, often at the back of the head. Most people will describe it as the worst headache they have ever experienced.
A correct diagnosis is made easier if the headache is followed by other symptoms, such as:
- Vomiting
- A stiff neck
- Collapse
- Loss of consciousness
- Blurred vision
- Inability to bear bright light (photophobia)
However, these symptoms generally occur only with a fairly major leak. A CT scan, and sometimes a lumbar puncture, are usually performed to confirm the diagnosis.
In about 50% of cases there is a small 'warning' leak before the serious rupture occurs. This results in a very bad headache but few other symptoms, and it is these cases that are most often missed. It is particularly important that a correct diagnosis is made at this stage because subsequent bleeds are usually more severe and frequently result in death or severe disability.
If a brain aneurysm is detected at an early stage, before a major leak occurs, it can often be successfully treated by neurosurgery with the application of clips to the affected vessel.
Causes and Risks
Usually, the bleed occurs during physical effort - such as coughing or during physical activities - when the pressure of blood in the brain is temporarily raised, but it can happen at any time.
Smokers and people with high blood pressure are most at risk of a subarachnoid haemorrhage. It is most common in older people but occurs not infrequently in young people with an inherited aneurysm.
Diagnosis
A brain scan will usually be carried out when a brain aneurysm is suspected. This is usually in the form of:
- A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan - This provides detailed images of the brain using strong magnetic fields and radio waves
- A computerised tomography (CT) scan - This uses a number of X-rays that are assembled in 3D
A lumbar puncture may also be performed should the CT scan prove negative but a ruptured aneurysm is strongly suggested by the symptoms.
Types of Brain Aneurysm Negligence
If left unchecked, an aneurysm can have very serious consequences. A medical negligence claim may therefore be brought if any of the following has occurred:
- Delays when diagnosing a brain aneurysm
- Delays in treating a brain aneurysm
- Surgery not being performed in a reasonable period of time
- Premature discharge from hospital, before surgery has been performed
- Preventative treatment not performed
- Rehabilitative therapy delayed or not provided
Case Studies
Why Choose JMW?
JMW offers free initial advice on making a claim, evaluating whether you have a case. Where appropriate, we are able to offer a no win, no fee service.
Our team is highly experienced in helping those who have been unfortunate enough to suffer a brain aneurysm that should have otherwise been detected and treated. We can provide the guidance you need and help you secure the compensation to which you are entitled.
Headed by leading clinical negligence solicitor Eddie Jones, our team is renowned for its skill and experience nationwide. It includes members of both the Law Society's specialist panel for clinical negligence the Action against Medical Accidents (AvMA) solicitors' panel.
What Our Clients Say
Talk to Us
For an assessment of your potential subarachnoid haemorrhage claim, call our team today on 0800 054 6512 or complete our online enquiry form. We can answer your questions and provide all of the information you need to get things underway.
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