Epidural Abscess

Understanding the Infection and Your Legal Rights with the Baltimore Epidural Abscess Lawyer

An epidural abscess is a serious medical condition that can cause lasting neurological damage if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The Kopec Law Firm provides this webpage to explain what epidurals are, how epidural abscesses develop, and the potential legal recourse available if medical malpractice contributes to your suffering. Accordingly, if you have been injured, then you may need the Baltimore epidural abscess lawyer.

What is an Epidural?

An epidural is a pain-relief technique administered by anesthesiologists, pain management specialists, and also some OB-GYNs. A thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the epidural space, the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. Medication delivered through the catheter numbs specifically the lower body, making it a common choice for:

• Pain management during childbirth
• Surgery on the lower back, abdomen, and also legs
• Chronic pain management

Epidural Abscess: A Serious Infection

An epidural abscess is a collection of pus caused by bacterial or fungal infection within the epidural space. Consequently, it can have devastating consequences. The epidural space is close to the spinal cord and nerves, so an abscess can:

• Damage nerve tissue
• Cause severe pain, weakness, and also paralysis
• Lead to permanent neurological deficits

Anatomy and Causes of Epidural Abscess

The epidural space is located in the spinal canal, which runs vertically through the center of the spine. It separates the bony vertebrae from the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Epidural abscesses can develop from various sources, including:

• Bacteria introduced during an epidural procedure (most common)
• Infection spreading from the bloodstream
• Skin infections near the injection site
• Previous spinal surgery

Where Can an Epidural Abscess Form?

An epidural abscess can form anywhere along the spine where an epidural injection is administered, generally in the:

• Cervical spine (neck)
• Thoracic spine (upper back)
• Lumbar spine (lower back)

Symptoms of Epidural Abscess

Early diagnosis is crucial to minimize lasting damage. Be aware of these potential symptoms following an epidural procedure:

• Fever
• New or worsening back pain, especially near the injection site
• Headache
• Neck stiffness
• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the legs or feet
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Who to See and Tests for Diagnosis

If you experience any of these symptoms after an epidural, then seek immediate medical attention. An emergency room doctor or neurologist will likely perform a physical examination and order tests such as:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: Creates detailed images of the spine and surrounding tissues to identify an abscess.
• Myelogram: Uses a contrast dye injected into the spinal canal to highlight abnormalities on X-rays.
• Blood tests: May reveal signs of infection, such as elevated white blood cell count.
• Spinal tap (lumbar puncture): Collects cerebrospinal fluid for analysis to rule out other infections.

Treatment for Epidural Abscess

Prompt treatment with intravenous antibiotics is essential to fight the infection. Depending on the severity, additional treatment may include:

• Drainage of the abscess: This can be done with a needle or surgery.
• Steroid medications: Reduce inflammation around the nerves.
• Physical therapy: May be necessary to regain strength and function if nerve damage has occurred.

Who Treats Epidural Abscesses?

Epidural abscesses are typically treated by:

• Neurologists: Specialists in the nervous system.
• Infectious disease specialists: Doctors who focus on diagnosing and treating infections.
• Neurosurgeons: Surgeons who operate on the brain and spine (may be needed for abscess drainage).

Prognosis & the Need for the Baltimore Epidural Abscess Lawyer

With early diagnosis and treatment, most people recover fully from an epidural abscess. However, misdiagnosis can lead to permanent neurological damage, including:

• Paralysis
• Chronic pain
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Difficulty walking

Medical Malpractice with the Baltimore Epidural Abscess Lawyer

If a medical professional deviates from the accepted standard of care during an epidural procedure or fails to diagnose an epidural abscess promptly, then you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. This could include:

• Improper sterile technique during the epidural injection
• Failure to recognize signs and symptoms of infection
• Delaying necessary tests or treatment

Finding the Baltimore Epidural Abscess Lawyer

If you believe your epidural abscess resulted from medical negligence, then consulting with a medical malpractice attorney is crucial. We an review your case, determine if malpractice occurred, and help you pursue your claim.

Taking Legal Action for an Epidural Abscess

An experienced medical malpractice attorney can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Here’s what you can expect:

• Case Evaluation: We will review your medical records, consult with medical experts, and assess the strength of your case.
• Building Your Case: We will gather evidence to prove that medical negligence caused your epidural abscess and resulting damages.
• Negotiation or Litigation: We will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement with the healthcare provider’s insurance company. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, we will represent you in court.

Potential Damages in an Epidural Abscess Lawsuit

A successful medical malpractice lawsuit for an epidural abscess can recover compensation for various damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs associated with treating the abscess and any resulting complications.
• Lost wages: Income you were unable to earn due to your illness and recovery.
• Loss of earning capacity: If your ability to work is permanently impaired due to the abscess.
• Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional distress caused by the infection and consequences afterward.
• Disability: Compensation for any permanent limitations you experience due to nerve damage.

Time Limits for Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim

Each state has a time limit (statute of limitations) for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your diagnosis to ensure you don’t miss the deadline. You can read cases about Maryland’s statute of limitations in the Baltimore Medical Malpractice Lawyer Blog.

Finding the Baltimore Epidural Abscess Lawyer

Look for an attorney with experience handling medical malpractice cases, particularly those involving epidural abscesses. Specifically, they should have a strong understanding of medical procedures and relevant legal principles.

Next Step: Call the Baltimore Epidural Abscess Lawyer

While a medical malpractice lawsuit can’t undo the harm caused by an epidural abscess, it can provide the financial resources you need to recover and move forward with your life. Don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel particularly if you believe medical negligence contributed to your suffering.

Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.