Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating outcomes a patient can endure—and when they are caused by medical malpractice, the betrayal runs even deeper. At Van Wey & Metzler, we represent individuals and families in Houston whose lives have been permanently altered by preventable medical errors resulting in spinal cord damage.
We’re not here to offer generic personal injury advice. We focus solely on the most serious, life-altering cases caused by medical negligence—cases that demand rigorous investigation, fierce legal advocacy, and compassionate support. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to substandard care, we are here to fight for the truth, justice, and compensation you deserve.
The spinal cord is a delicate, highly sensitive structure that plays a critical role in every movement, sensation, and system of the body. Even a minor error during surgery, imaging, or post-operative care can result in catastrophic consequences. While most people associate spinal cord injuries with car accidents or trauma, a significant number result from entirely preventable medical errors.
When medical professionals fail to recognize danger, act too slowly, or violate surgical protocols, the outcome can be irreversible. Victims may be left facing total or partial paralysis, chronic pain, and a lifetime of dependency on medical equipment or personal care.
No two spinal cord injuries are the same—but nearly all result in life-altering consequences. Whether complete or incomplete, these injuries can affect every aspect of daily life.
For families, the emotional toll is enormous. Spouses become caregivers. Children take on roles they’re too young for. Dreams are put on hold. The physical harm is just the beginning.
Case Example 1: Spinal Surgery Gone Wrong
A Houston patient undergoing spinal fusion for routine back pain was left permanently paralyzed after a neurosurgeon severed part of the spinal cord during the procedure. The error occurred due to rushed surgical prep and lack of intraoperative monitoring.
Case Example 2: Dismissed Red Flags
A middle-aged woman presented at a Houston ER with classic symptoms of spinal cord compression—numbness, incontinence, and back pain—but was discharged without imaging. Days later, she returned unable to walk. The delayed diagnosis caused irreversible damage.
Case Example 3: Epidural Catastrophe
During labor, an improperly placed epidural needle caused a blood clot to form around the spinal cord. Nurses failed to escalate symptoms of numbness and weakness. The mother suffered permanent lower-body paralysis.
These are not rare outliers—they are examples of what happens when healthcare systems prioritize speed over safety and fail to listen to patients.
Spinal injury cases caused by medical malpractice are legally complex. Texas law sets a high bar for proving negligence, and large hospital systems have entire teams dedicated to avoiding responsibility. That’s why it’s critical to have experienced medical malpractice attorneys on your side.
At Van Wey & Metzler, we partner with life care planners, vocational specialists, neurologists, and economists to build a complete picture of your damages—because you only get one chance to secure the compensation you’ll need for life.
We don’t dabble in personal injury. We specialize in high-stakes medical malpractice—particularly cases involving spinal cord and neurological injury. Our firm has handled some of the most catastrophic injury cases in Texas and across the country.
We know the healthcare systems and hospitals in Houston—and we know how to hold them accountable. Our results and reputation speak for themselves.
Our clients come to us during the most painful moments of their lives. We provide not only aggressive legal advocacy but also a steady hand and compassionate guidance. You will never feel like just another case file.
You don’t have to suffer in silence. If you or your loved one suffered a spinal cord injury due to medical negligence in Houston, we are here to help you get answers—and justice.
In a typical medical malpractice claim, three critical elements must be proven: First, we establish the standard of care, determining what a reasonably prudent healthcare provider would do under similar circumstances. Next, we demonstrate a violation of that standard of care, showing that the medical professional acted outside the expected norms. Finally, we prove causation, linking the healthcare professional’s actions (or inaction) directly to the injury, harm, or death.
Our knowledgeable attorneys will thoroughly investigate the facts of your situation to ensure these elements are met, providing a solid foundation for your case.
If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury due to medical negligence, our Houston medical malpractice lawyers are here to help. During your initial consultation, our team will review your case and discuss your legal options with you.
At Van Wey & Metzler, we are passionate about fighting for justice and ensuring that negligent healthcare providers are held accountable. Contact our medical malpractice attorneys in Houston today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
