A knee tibial osteotomy is a surgical procedure often recommended for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. This condition leads to the wearing down of cartilage, limiting the knee's ability to function properly. A tibial osteotomy aims to relieve pressure on the joint, realign it, and prolong the need for a total knee replacement by 10-15 years. While it can delay more invasive procedures, it comes with risks such as prolonged recovery time, the progression of arthritis, and potential complications during future knee replacements.

In rare cases, complications like vascular injuries can occur, leading to severe consequences if not promptly addressed. Appropriate care, including thorough postoperative monitoring by the surgeon, is essential to avoid life-altering outcomes.

How Medical Negligence Can Occur in Knee Tibial Osteotomy

While tibial osteotomies are generally effective, negligence can occur if healthcare providers fail to take appropriate postoperative measures. Some examples of negligence in these cases include:

• Failure to properly monitor post-surgery symptoms: Vascular injuries, such as compromised blood flow, are a known risk of osteotomy surgery and should be closely monitored. Signs like changes in leg color, temperature, and pulse must be investigated immediately.
• Inadequate postoperative assessment: It is critical that the operating surgeon personally reviews the patient after surgery. Delegating follow-up care entirely to other staff without direct involvement can lead to delayed responses to complications.
• Failure to respond to emerging complications: If symptoms such as pain or poor circulation persist after surgery, immediate action is required. Delays in contacting the surgeon or failure to escalate concerns can result in severe complications, such as compartment syndrome or vascular damage.

How to Spot Medical Negligence

If you or a loved one have undergone knee osteotomy surgery and experienced complications, there are signs that could indicate medical negligence:

• Lack of follow-up by the surgeon: After surgery, it is essential that the operating surgeon remains actively involved in assessing the patient's recovery. If this is not done and symptoms worsen, it could point to a failure in care.
• Delays in responding to complications: If serious symptoms like pain, swelling, or discoloration are not addressed promptly, this can lead to irreversible damage.
• Failure to investigate unusual symptoms: A healthcare provider’s failure to perform additional tests or physical exams when concerning symptoms arise could indicate a breach in the standard of care.

Seeking Compensation for Medical Negligence

If you believe that negligence during or after your knee tibial osteotomy caused harm, you may be eligible to make a medical negligence claim. Proving that the healthcare provider failed to meet the expected standard of care and that this failure directly caused your injury or complication is essential.

At Tomlin & Partners, our expert team of medical negligence solicitors can help you understand your legal options and pursue a claim on a No Win, No Fee basis, ensuring you receive compensation for the pain and suffering caused.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has experienced complications following knee osteotomy surgery and suspect medical negligence, contact Tomlin & Partners today for expert legal advice. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

‍