Arachnoiditis

[Ranald]

I have been dx w/arachnoiditis after delivering my baby 7 mths ago. I have been to several doctors and no one could give me a proper diagnosis. Finally, I have found a dr with experience and knowledge to step outside the box. I am currently under review for long term disability from my previous employer(another battle) because it has taken so long for me to receive help from a doctor that cared enough to go outside of the "norm." I am wondering what grounds, if any, do I have to sue? What about signing about the knowledge of risks?  I don't recall having long term injury due to having a baby? Do you have any suggestions for my disability claim and lawsuit? By the way, I had an MRI done a week after delivery and it didn't show anything, nor did my xrays.

[Rousset]

I am sorry to hear of your pain and condition. I understand that this is a very painful condition. I assume you were given an epidural during the birth procedure.

You could sue if the standard of care was not met. This may be difficult to prove as many Drs do give epidurals and, as you say, you may have given prior informed consent.

Nonetheless there are Drs that oppose this procedure.

Dr Charles Burton has gone on record to say that the sub-arachnoid space of the back is an extremely sensitive area and nothing should be put into it, as air alone cause cause arachnoiditis, let alone a dye or anesthetic.

So, you will need to seek out a very experienced medical malpractice attorney in the area in which you live. He will likely need to obtain all of your medical records to review them and see if a lawsuit is possibly winnable.

Be aware that there are very short time limits in every state in which to file suit. Do not delay...consult an experienced med mmalpractice lawyer now.

If you let me know your tel number and the city and state you live in, I will try to refer you to someone experienced.

Good Luck,

Ed Smith

Sacramento, Ca