Jill Kolodner | April 17, 2023 | Bicycle Accidents
The force of a bicycle accident can be severe, resulting in serious injuries, including a ruptured spleen. Bikes are little competition to vehicles comprised of thousands of pounds of crushing metal. You could suffer internal injuries from the brunt of the force, or your handlebars could dig into your abdomen. Either of these could result in a damaged or ruptured spleen.
After seeking immediate medical treatment for this serious injury, an experienced personal injury lawyer can walk you through your legal options.
What Is a Spleen?
The spleen is an organ located on the upper left side of your abdomen just below the rib cage. The spleen helps your body fight infection and filters old blood cells from your body.
What Is a Ruptured Spleen?
A ruptured spleen occurs because of a break in its surface. A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency, so it is vital to get immediate medical attention if you suspect you might have this injury. A ruptured spleen can cause internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
Signs of a Ruptured Spleen
Common signs of a ruptured spleen include:
- Pain or tenderness in the upper left abdomen
- Left shoulder pain
- Fainting, lightheadedness, or dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Confusion
If you have symptoms of a ruptured spleen, you should seek emergency medical treatment. An untreated ruptured spleen can lead to life-threatening complications.
Diagnosing a Ruptured Spleen
Medical professionals can conduct tests and scans to determine if you have a ruptured spleen or other internal organ damage.
This may involve one or more of the following:
- Physical exam – Your doctor can press on your abdomen to measure its size and assess tenderness.
- Blood tests – Blood tests can determine your blood’s ability to clot and your platelet count.
- Ultrasound – Your doctor may use an ultrasound to see if there is blood in your abdomen.
- Imaging tests – Your doctor could also order a CT scan of your abdomen or another imaging test.
Once your condition is properly diagnosed, you can begin treatment.
Treatment For a Ruptured Spleen
Treatment for a ruptured spleen depends on the severity of your condition. Some people need emergency surgery to remove the ruptured spleen. While all organs are important, you can survive without a spleen as your liver can assume many of its functions. Organ removal poses several risks, including the possibility of infection.
When surgery is not required, you may still need treatment in a hospital. You may be required to rest while doctors observe your condition.
Possible treatment for a ruptured spleen may include:
- Repairing the spleen with the use of stitches or other techniques
- Removing the spleen and the introduction of medications to prevent infection
- Partial removal of the spleen if part of the spleen can be salvaged
Your doctor should clearly explain the possible treatment options, alternatives, risks, and benefits of each option.
Possible Personal Injury Compensation For a Ruptured Spleen After a Bicycle Accident in Baltimore, MD
You may have a legal claim for compensation for the damages you have suffered. Treating a ruptured spleen can be expensive due to the likely need for emergency surgery or hospitalization.
Even after your immediate situation is stabilized, you may continue to risk complications and the onset of new medical problems because the spleen is responsible for staving off infection.
You could also miss time from work and suffer physical and emotional pain. You can seek compensation for all of these accident-related losses.
An experienced Baltimore personal injury lawyer can review your case and explain your legal options during a free case review.
Contact the Baltimore Bicycle Accident Law Firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information contact the Baltimore bicycle accident law firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
(410) 970-3080