People go through surgery to feel better or address a pressing medical problem. But sometimes, after surgery, patients end up in a worse condition. Medical mistakes are the third-leading cause of death in the U.S., behind heart disease and cancer.
The statistics are staggering. One in three providers is sued for medical malpractice, and up to 15% of all providers make avoidable errors. Surgeons face more medical malpractice claims than other healthcare providers, as the operating room is a complex environment where a lot can go wrong.
Surgical mistakes that often lead to malpractice lawsuits
Several types of errors can occur during surgery that may lead to medical malpractice claims. Here are five common surgical errors:
- Infections: Poor hygiene can result in infections, which affect about one in 20 hospitalized patients. This careless behavior can be deadly and is avoidable through strict protocols and procedures.
- Medication errors: Mistakes with medication can lead to severe complications. Doctors may prescribe the wrong drug or dosage, and nurses and staff may also administer the wrong medicine.
- Wrong-site surgery: This happens when an operation is performed on the wrong body part or even the wrong patient. Such errors can have serious consequences.
- Falls: If hospital staff fails to properly secure you to the operating table, you might fall and suffer injuries. This can happen while you are unconscious during the procedure.
- Foreign objects: Every year, at least 4,000 patients have surgical instruments left inside their bodies. These objects can include sponges, clamps and scissors.
Negligence often causes these mistakes. If you experience any of these issues, you might have grounds for a lawsuit.
Surgical errors are almost always preventable
Negligence by doctors, nurses, staff members or healthcare facilities is often to blame for surgical errors. Proper protocols and attention to detail can prevent many of these mistakes. Despite this, proving negligence in medical malpractice cases can be challenging. These cases require thorough investigation and a deep understanding of medical procedures and laws.
If you believe you are a victim of a surgical mistake, contacting an experienced medical malpractice attorney is crucial. They can guide you through the complicated legal process and work to secure the compensation you deserve.