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Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is a serious condition which can lead to blindness if not dealt with quickly. Common complaints are floaters, flashes or shadows. Most people will contact there optician in the first place. We have dealt with a number of cases in recent times where opticians have failed to appreciate the significance of this condition leading to a retinal tear, which if left untreated can cause a loss of sight either partially or completely.

A common mistake is a failure to appreciate the presenting symptoms or carry out an adequate examination. The pupils need to be dilated so that the back of the eye can be visualised. Without dilating a pupil properly an assessment can be difficult. If a retinal tear is suspected there needs to be an urgent referral to hospital and an ophthalmic surgeon. They will treat the detachment usually by injecting oil in to push the detachment back into place and allow it to heal. If there is a delay in treatment, irreversible damage can be caused, leaving an individual with either a partial loss of sight or a complete loss of vision in that eye.

The loss of vision in one eye is devastating enough. If there is risk the good eye may fail, they could be rendered totally blind. Loss of vision in one eye can cause a number of practical issues, judging distances, difficulties with vision in low light conditions etc.

If you have suffered a retinal detachment and you believe there's been a delay in recognising the signs and symptoms, you may be able to claim compensation. That compensation will be designed to assist you with day-to-day needs, aids and appliances and financial assistance if you are unable to work. Compensation would help secure your future and provide the help you will need in the event of becoming totally blind.

Please contact one of our solicitors who will be able to advise you whether you have a case and the process involved. We work on a no-win no fee basis with a reduced success fee if the claim is successful.

For more information contact John Bennett in our Clinical Negligence department via email or phone on 01254 872111. Alternatively send any question through to Forbes Solicitors via our online Contact Form.

Learn more about our Clinical Negligence department here

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