While you might be under the impression that surgical errors only happen in the most complex of operations, this is not necessarily true. In fact, errors can happen even in the most typical of surgical situations. This is because it is imperative that doctors and surgeons are always paying attention during the course of a surgery, but a doctor who is negligent in this particular situation could lead to injuries for the patient. If you have already sustained injuries and need legal advice about filing a medical malpractice claim, it’s time to speak with an Arizona personal injury attorney.

From Start to Finish, Surgery Can Be Dangerous

Even after the critical part of the surgery has happened, medical negligence can happen almost immediately. Surgical errors of any kind can have catastrophic results that lead to long-lasting medical issues for the patient. One such example of a surgical error is the perforation of a bowel during a removal of a polyp surgery or a routine colonoscopy. When this occurs, bacteria from the bowel infiltrates the patient’s abdominal cavity which can lead to peritonitis and sepsis and this can infect other internal organs like the kidneys, lungs, or liver. If the sepsis isn’t addressed immediately, it can cause the patient’s death. Surgical errors can also lead to items being left behind during the surgery. For example, a surgeon who leaves behind a sponge in a patient can also cause infections and serious injuries.

Surgeries Where Mistakes and Accidents Are Common

Surgery to relieve sinus pressure can also lead to serious surgical errors. Although this surgery is performed every day, if the muscles linked to eye movement are accidently cut during the procedure, the patient may experience double vision and lose the ability to read, drive, or work. During a hysterectomy or tubal ligation, the surgeon has the responsibility to carry out the procedure appropriately, but slips can lead to critical mistakes and pain for the patient. If the colon or bladder is accidently lacerated, for example, excessive bleeding can occur. This can generate blood clots in the legs. These clots can ultimately migrate to the patient’s lungs leading to pulmonary embolism or death.

As you can see, these are just a few of the serious situations that can result from a surgical error. If you believe you have grounds for a claim, it is important to connect with an Arizona medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. Unfortunately, surgical accidents can and do happen, but you may have recourse through a lawsuit.

 

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding Most Common Surgical Errors, or any other personal injury, please feel free to contact Brian T. Allen at  480.461.5335,  log on to udallshumway.com,  or contact an attorney in your area. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.