The patient who sought care at a hospital in Västerbotten showed signs of infection in the vertebrae.
The person received antibiotic treatment and underwent several different checks.
When the referral for the X-ray was sent, it was not judged to be serious enough to make an emergency X-ray.
The oral communication was absent and the examination was delayed until tomorrow.
- Additional communication would be needed for this patient both orally and in the written documentation, says Sofie Jacobsson, the chief physician who reported the incident.
"Sorry"
During the night, the patient's condition deteriorated and the operation was performed after magnetic resonance imaging.
However, the patient suffered permanent injuries.
Despite rehabilitation, the patient does not regain his main functions.
The case has also been reported to the Swedish Health and Care Inspectorate for review according to Lex Maria.
- I think it is unfortunate that it happens, it has had a very significant impact on the patient and the chances of being restored deteriorate as time goes on, says Sofie Jacobsson.
The region states that they have taken measures to prevent this from happening again.