Anaesthetic Awareness (AGAA)
Going through surgery is stressful enough, but waking up or being aware during the procedure, unable to move or speak, can be a deeply traumatic experience. If this has happened to you, you may be struggling with anxiety, flashbacks, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Medical Law Partnership specialise in helping patients like you claim compensation for negligence leading to anaesthesia awareness. Here’s how we can support you in seeking justice and financial redress.
How common is awareness during anaesthesia negligence claims?
Awareness during anaesthesia is relatively rare, but when it happens, it’s often due to medical errors. Estimates suggest that around 1-2 in 1000 patients undergoing general anaesthesia may experience some form of unintended awareness. While not all cases are the result of negligence, many occur because of mistakes such as incorrect dosing of anaesthetic drugs, failure to monitor the patient properly, or equipment malfunctions. If your awareness was caused by substandard care, you could have a strong claim for compensation. The Medical Law Partnership have successfully represented many patients in similar situations, helping them secure the recognition and financial support they deserve.
Awareness during anaesthesia means that, while under general anaesthetic, you were conscious to some degree—either fully awake or partially aware—during surgery. In some cases, patients can recall sounds, conversations, or even pain, but are unable to move or alert the medical team. This can lead to severe psychological distress, including nightmares, anxiety, and a fear of future medical procedures.
Not all cases of awareness are due to negligence, but if your anaesthetist failed to administer the correct dosage, didn’t monitor your consciousness levels properly, or ignored warning signs, you may have a valid claim. The Medical Law Partnership will investigate what went wrong and determine whether your suffering could have been prevented.
Starting a claim might feel daunting, but we’re here to make the process as straightforward as possible for you. The first step is to contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen carefully to your experience and assess whether negligence played a role in your anaesthesia awareness.
If we believe you have a strong case, our specialist solicitors will guide you through every step. We’ll obtain your medical records, consult independent anaesthesia experts, and build a robust case to prove that your suffering was caused by avoidable errors. You won’t have to face the legal complexities alone, we’ll handle negotiations with the hospital or NHS Trust and, if necessary, represent you in court. Our priority is to secure the compensation you deserve while minimising stress for you.
If your claim is successful, compensation can address both the psychological and financial impact of your experience. General damages cover the pain, trauma, and any long-term psychological effects, such as PTSD, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. The amount depends on the severity of your suffering, but cases involving anaesthesia awareness often result in significant awards due to the profound distress caused.
You may also be entitled to special damages, which compensate for financial losses. This could include the cost of counselling or therapy, lost earnings if you’ve been unable to work, or travel expenses for medical appointments. In some cases, if you require ongoing psychological support, future treatment costs can also be included.
Every case is unique, but The Medical Law Partnership will ensure your claim reflects the full extent of your suffering and losses.
The duration of a claim varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case and whether negligence is admitted early. Some claims settle within 2-4 years, while others—particularly if liability is disputed, may take longer. We’ll always keep you updated and work as efficiently as possible to resolve your case without unnecessary delays. While we can’t undo what happened, securing compensation can provide financial security and a sense of justice, helping you move forward.
If you’ve experienced awareness during anaesthesia and believe it was due to negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out. The Medical Law Partnership Solicitors are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your voice is heard and your suffering is properly acknowledged.
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