A transverse myelitis is an extremely serious form of injury. The complete or partial damage to the spinal cord causes permanent paralysis and drastically changes life.
What does transverse myelitis entail?
A transverse myelitis occurs due to damage to the spinal cord, which completely or partially severs the connection between the brain and the body. The impact depends on the location and severity of the damage.
Different levels of transverse myelitis
| Level | Location | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Cervical (C1-C8) | Neck vertebrae | Quadriplegia (arms and legs) |
| Thoracic (T1-T12) | Chest vertebrae | Paraplegia (legs) |
| Lumbar (L1-L5) | Lumbar vertebrae | Paraplegia (legs, partial) |
| Sacral (S1-S5) | Sacrum | Limited impairments |
Complete or incomplete injury
- Complete transverse myelitis: no function below the level of damage
- Incomplete transverse myelitis: some functions remain preserved
Impact on daily life
A transverse myelitis affects virtually every aspect of existence.
Physical consequences
Direct effects
- Paralysis of limbs
- Loss of sensation
- Problems with bladder and bowel functions
- Sexual limitations
- Difficulty with temperature regulation
- Persistent pain (neuropathic)
Later complications
- Pressure sores (decubitus)
- Urinary tract infections
- Muscle spasms (spasticity)
- Bone demineralization
- Autonomic dysreflexia (in high lesions)
- Respiratory problems
Psychological and social impact
- Feelings of depression and anxiety
- Change in self-image
- Tensions in relationships
- Isolation from social circles
- Loss of job and financial security
Required support
Residents of Rijswijk with transverse myelitis often need extensive assistance and adaptations to continue their lives.
Aids and home adaptations
| Type | Examples | Cost indication |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair | Manual wheelchair, electric variant | €2,000 - €50,000 |
| Home adaptation | Stairlift, adapted bathroom, wider doors | €50,000 - €200,000+ |
| Vehicle adaptation | Hand controls, wheelchair-accessible vehicle | €10,000 - €100,000 |
| Other aids | Hoist, shower chair, catheters | Variable |
Care requirements
The level of care depends on the level of the transverse myelitis and varies per person.
Care hours per level
| Level | Care type | Hours per day |
|---|---|---|
| High cervical (C1-C4) | Continuous care | 24 hours |
| Low cervical (C5-C8) | Extensive help with daily tasks | 8-16 hours |
| High thoracic | Support with transfers and household | 4-8 hours |
| Low thoracic/lumbar | Minimal help | 1-4 hours |
Damage claims for transverse myelitis in Rijswijk
In personal injury cases involving transverse myelitis, the compensations are among the highest. For residents of Rijswijk, legal support can be sought via Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or Rechtbank Den Haag.
Types of compensation
Loss of income
Especially for young victims, future loss of income can run into the millions. This is calculated based on potential earned income minus remaining work capacity.
Care and nursing costs
For a severe transverse myelitis, the costs for lifelong care can amount to €3-5 million, depending on life expectancy and care intensity.
Costs for adaptations
Regular replacement of aids such as wheelchairs and home adaptations can cost €500,000 to €1 million over a lifetime.
Pain and suffering compensation
For a complete transverse myelitis, amounts between €150,000 and €350,000 or higher are awarded as compensation for non-material damage.
Practical advice
- Seek a personal injury lawyer with experience as soon as possible
- Have a rehabilitation physician assess your care needs
- Request advances in time for essential adaptations
- Account for future reassessments of the damage
- Involve the rehabilitation center in establishing the claim