A transverse myelitis is a serious form of injury with lifelong impact. Damage to the spinal cord often causes permanent paralysis and drastically changes daily life.
Definition of Transverse Myelitis
A transverse myelitis means that the spinal cord is damaged to such an extent that communication between the brain and the body is partially or completely disrupted. The severity and location of the damage determine the impact on the body.
Types and Levels of Transverse Myelitis
| Level | Location | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Cervical (C1-C8) | Neck | Quadriplegia (arms and legs) |
| Thoracic (T1-T12) | Chest | Paraplegia (legs) |
| Lumbar (L1-L5) | Lower back | Paraplegia (partial legs) |
| Sacral (S1-S5) | Sacrum | Minimal limitations |
Complete versus Incomplete
- Complete transverse myelitis: no functions below the injury
- Incomplete transverse myelitis: some functions remain preserved
Impact on Life
A transverse myelitis affects virtually every facet of existence.
Physical Effects
Direct consequences
- Paralysis of limbs
- Sensory loss
- Problems with bladder and bowels
- Sexual dysfunction
- Difficulty with temperature regulation
- Persistent pain (neuropathic)
Later complications
- Pressure sores (decubitus)
- Urinary tract infections
- Spasms
- Bone demineralization
- Autonomic dysreflexia (high lesions)
- Respiratory problems
Emotional and Social Consequences
- Feelings of depression and anxiety
- Change in self-image
- Strain in relationships
- Feeling of loneliness
- Loss of income and employment
Required Support
Persons with transverse myelitis often require extensive aids and adaptations.
Facilities and Costs
| Type | Examples | Cost Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair | Manual, electric | €2,000 - €50,000 |
| Home adaptations | Lift, bathroom, wider doors | €50,000 - €200,000+ |
| Car adaptations | Hand controls, wheelchair-accessible van | €10,000 - €100,000 |
| Other aids | Hoist, shower chair, catheters | Varies |
Care in Utrecht
In Utrecht, victims can turn to specialized institutions such as the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55 for advice on personal injury claims. In addition, the Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, located at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, handles cases regarding compensation.
Care Intensity per Level
| Level | Care Type | Hours per Day |
|---|---|---|
| High cervical (C1-C4) | Continuous care | 24 hours |
| Low cervical (C5-C8) | Assistance with daily tasks | 8-16 hours |
| High thoracic | Support with transfers | 4-8 hours |
| Low thoracic/lumbar | Minimal assistance | 1-4 hours |
Damage Claims for Transverse Myelitis
Compensation for transverse myelitis belongs to the highest in personal injury law.
Types of Compensation
Loss of Income
For young victims, future loss of income can run into millions, depending on their career potential and remaining work capacity.
Care Costs
Lifelong care for a high transverse myelitis can entail costs between €3-5 million, depending on life expectancy and care needs.
Aids and Adaptations
Regular replacement of wheelchairs, home adaptations, and vehicles can cost €500,000 to €1 million over a lifetime.
Pain and Suffering Compensation
For a complete transverse myelitis, pain and suffering amounts can vary between €150,000 and €350,000 or higher.
Advice for Victims
- Contact a personal injury lawyer in Utrecht
- Have a specialist assess the care needs
- Request advances for urgent adaptations
- Consider periodic reassessment of the damage claim
- Involve local rehabilitation centers in the case