Pulmonary Embolism, DVT & Blood Clot Negligence Compensation Claims

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) are serious medical conditions that can result from various risk factors, including negligent medical treatment. In England and Wales, healthcare providers are expected to follow strict standards of care to prevent such conditions, especially in high-risk patients. However, when these standards are not adhered to, patients may be put at unnecessary risk of developing DVT or PE. Clinical Negligence can play a significant role in the onset of these conditions, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences.

What is DVT and Pulmonary Embolism?

DVT is a condition where a blood clot forms in the deep veins, usually in the legs. While a DVT may not be immediately dangerous, it can lead to severe complications if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, resulting in a Pulmonary Embolism (PE). PE can cause life-threatening symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, and rapid heart rate.

Risk Factors for DVT and PE

A variety of risk factors can predispose individuals to DVT or PE, and many of these factors can be exacerbated by negligent medical treatment:

Prolonged inactivity: If a patient is left immobilised for a prolonged period, such as after surgery or during hospitalisation, they may be at risk of DVT. Negligence may occur if healthcare providers fail to implement preventative measures such as encouraging movement, administering blood-thinning medications, or fitting compression stockings.

Obesity: Obesity is a known risk factor for DVT. Failure to properly manage an obese patient’s care or implement necessary preventive treatments, especially during surgery or hospitalisation, may be considered negligent.

Damage to blood vessels: Medical procedures, including surgeries and invasive treatments, may sometimes cause damage to blood vessels. If this happens and appropriate care isn’t taken to mitigate the risk of clot formation, negligence may be a contributing factor.

Ongoing medical conditions: Patients with chronic conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, or cancer are at higher risk of developing DVT or PE. Failing to recognise and manage these risk factors can lead to preventable complications.

Family history and genetics: Blood clotting disorders can run in families, and a family history of DVT or PE increases the risk. In cases where this genetic predisposition is overlooked, medical professionals may be held accountable for negligence if DVT or PE develops.

Pregnancy and Hormonal Factors: Pregnancy and recent use of contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are associated with an increased risk of clotting. A failure to account for these factors and implement preventative measures may constitute negligence.

Smoking: Smoking is another well-known risk factor for DVT and PE. If a patient is a smoker, extra precautions should be taken during treatment or surgery to prevent clot formation.

Use of casts or immobilisation: Patients in plaster casts or those immobilised due to fractures, particularly in the lower limbs, are also at risk. Healthcare providers must assess the individual risk factors and, where appropriate, administer blood thinners or provide other preventive measures.

Blood Clot Negligence

Healthcare providers are expected to assess patients’ risk for developing DVT or PE and take appropriate preventative steps. This may include:

• Administering blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants).
• Encouraging early mobilisation and physical activity after surgery.
• Using compression stockings or devices to stimulate circulation.
• Monitoring for early signs and symptoms of DVT or PE.

Failure to adhere to these standards can result in clinical negligence claims, as the development of DVT or PE may have been preventable with proper care.

DVT and PE in the UK – The Stats

DVT and PE are significant health concerns in the UK, with an estimated 25,000 preventable hospital deaths from venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes DVT and PE, occurring annually. This makes VTE one of the leading causes of hospital-related mortality.

Each year, around 60,000 people in the UK suffer from DVT, and around 40,000 develop PE. Many of these cases are preventable with proper medical care, and a significant number of deaths and complications could be avoided with adherence to clinical guidelines.

In cases where DVT or PE arises due to negligent medical treatment, affected individuals or their families may be entitled to compensation. The NHS pays out significant sums in compensation for clinical negligence claims each year. 

In the 2022-2023 financial year, £2.6 billion was paid out in compensation for clinical negligence claims across England and Wales, including those related to DVT and PE.

Patients who experience long-term complications, such as post-thrombotic syndrome (a condition that can cause chronic pain, swelling, and ulceration in the legs following a DVT), may also be entitled to additional compensation for the ongoing impact on their quality of life.

How to make a blood clot & DVT claim

DVT and PE are serious medical conditions that can be exacerbated or even caused by clinical negligence. While many factors contribute to the development of these conditions, medical professionals have a duty of care to mitigate the risks wherever possible. Failure to do so can have devastating consequences, and those affected may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.

If you believe you have suffered due to negligent treatment, it is essential to seek legal advice to explore your options for making a claim. Our team of specialist medical negligence solicitors are here to help you understand your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us for expert advice and support in pursuing a claim.