Necrotising Fasciitis

We have observed a rise in the number of questions we have been receiving about necrotising fasciitis in recent months. We are looking into more necrotising fasciitis cases than we have in the previous five years. Therefore, it would seem reasonable to think about what constitutes negligent medical care.

Necrotising Fasciitis is a startling soft-tissue illness that can be fatal. In fact, the media has occasionally referred to it as “the flesh-eating” illness. The relevant bacteria rapidly move across the body’s connective tissue when they have infected any deep, soft tissue, causing all infected tissue to deteriorate. It can quickly deteriorate the body’s capacity to operate and pose a hazard to a patient’s life.

It should come as no surprise that timely diagnosis and treatment are critical to the patient’s survival as well as a favourable prognosis.

Unfortunately, thorough debridement (surgical removal of all contaminated tissue) is the only treatment available, in addition to the use of antibiotics. This procedure alone may cause physical and psychological damage. Extensive tissue loss may occur in a patient, perhaps leading to amputation.

A delay in diagnosis and treatment may have significant implications for a patient.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham LLP Solicitors are available for consultations in any of our offices in Athlone, Galway, Dublin, Lanesborough or Moate. To speak to one of our specialist medical negligence solicitors, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today.  Email or make a Free Online Enquiry. All initial enquiries are free of charge and carry no obligation.