Homonymous Hemianopsia as a Result of NeuroBlate Defect

NeuroBlate systems were developed to allow minimally invasive brain surgery, particularly to treat abnormal growths in the brain. Recognizing that the risk of infection and damage to surrounding tissue was high with many other available treatments, the devices were designed to use special fast-heating and quick-cooling systems to reduce the risk to patients. The process, called brain tissue ablation, was supposed to be safe.

Unfortunately, defects in the design of NeuroBlate quickly surfaced, the primary issue being overheating of the tip of the blade resulting in damage to surrounding brain tissue. Whenever damage is done to the brain, there is high risk of side effects. One side effect of the damage, identified in a number of patients, was the development of Homonymous Hemianopsia.

Homonymous Hemianopsia is characterized by a visual field loss in each eye. Unfortunately, recognizing that this field loss has occurred is not always easy, as the brain will continue to try to interpret data that is not there. Patients may suffer for months before a proper diagnosis is made.

Symptoms of Homonymous Hemianopsia can be difficult to identify. In many patients, the primary sign of this disease is bumping into walls, doorframes, and other peripheral objects, as their ability to see those objects is compromised. Patients may also suffer from a form of social anxiety connected with feeling uncomfortable in large crowds, caused by the brain’s inability to correctly discern the location of people and objects around them.

Though assistive devices may be prescribed to help cope with Homonymous Hemianopsia, it is not curable. The damage done to the brain is not reversible, and the individual will continue to have issues for the rest of their life. These issues can cause interpersonal issues as well as difficulties maintaining work.

If you or someone you love has suffered Homonymous Hemianopsia after brain surgery, please consult with an experienced attorney. Determining whether or not brain damage might have occurred due to surgical error of machine malfunction is an important part of obtaining closure and attaining the compensation you are entitled to for your suffering.