We have recently seen a rise in the number of enquiries and cases involving complications following spinal surgery in Devon over the past 12–24 months.
Spinal surgery is complex and carries significant risks. In some cases, complications can have life-changing consequences, including:
- Paralysis, quadriplegia or paraplegia
- Foot drop
- Bowel and bladder dysfunction
- Sexual dysfunction
Many complications occur without any medical error, but some may be avoidable. Given the seriousness of these outcomes, it is important to investigate when things go wrong.
If you have a spinal injury and are worried that it may have been avoidable, it is easy and free to seek initial advice.
Understanding spinal and spinal cord injuries
A spinal injury compensation claim can arise when someone suffers injury due to another party’s negligence or fault, or as a result of negligent treatment. These injuries can range from minor fractures, or damage to the spinal column through to serious spinal cord injuries.
The spinal column (also called the vertebral column, spine, or backbone) is the central support structure of the human skeleton. It supports upper body weight, provides posture and flexibility, and protects the delicate spinal cord
Spinal column injuries may involve fractures, dislocations, herniated discs or soft tissue damage around the spinal column itself. While often painful and debilitating, not all spinal injuries affect the spinal cord itself.
The spinal cord sits inside the spinal column, and acts as a vital communication pathway carrying a bundle of vital nerves between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to this pathway disrupts signals being sent and received, which can lead to a loss of sensation or movement or even bodily function.
So, when the spinal cord and the nerves it carries are damaged, this can result in serious and life-changing spinal cord injury (SCI)- for example, paralysis affecting your mobility (paraplegia, quadriplegia), loss of bladder or bowel control and lifelong pain and loss of independence.
At Enable Law. we have extensive experience supporting clients with both complex spinal column injuries and catastrophic spinal cord injuries.
Supporting you after serious injury
Where injuries are found to be avoidable, the long-term impact can be profound.
Individuals may require:
- Lifelong care and rehabilitation
- Specialist equipment
- Adapted accommodation
Compensation in these cases can be substantial and is designed to provide financial security and ensure access to the care, support and resources needed for the future.
Our specialist spinal injury solicitors guide clients through every stage of the claims process, helping to secure early rehabilitation, access to medical experts, and ongoing support.
How we can help
If you or a family member has undergone spinal surgery and experienced an unexpected outcome, our specialist team is here to support you.
We offer:
- Clear, honest advice in plain English
- No win, no fee funding in appropriate cases
- Transparency throughout your claim — no surprises
- A dedicated specialist lawyer handling your case
There is no obligation, and initial discussions are free and confidential.
What to do if you are concerned about negligent spinal treatment
If you believe the following, you may wish to seek specialist legal advice:
- Your spinal surgery was performed negligently
- The surgery was avoidable or unnecessary
- Your post-operative care fell below an acceptable standard
At Enable Law, we have extensive experience in handling complex spinal injury and spinal cord injury claims. We understand the life-changing impact these injuries can have and are committed to helping you rebuild your life and secure the care, support and financial stability you need for the future.
To speak confidentially with Mike Bird, Rachel Lee-Oldfield or another member of our specialist medical negligence team, call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so a member of our team can call you back at a time convenient for you.
