What are the Most Common Types of Surgical Errors in Philadelphia, PA?

Understanding the frequently encountered surgical errors and getting compensated for them

Ever wonder how prevalent surgical errors are in the United States? And what are the most common types of surgical errors in Pennsylvania? Each year, at least 4,000 cases occur, according to the National Library of Medicine. The truth is that these procedures are not error free.

Despite the controlled environment of an operating room and even the precision and accuracy with which the procedure was conducted by a board-certified surgeon, Mistakes can still happen. These surgical errors have life-changing, devastating, and even deathly effects that are quite alarming.

When surgical errors occur, it is essential to have legal advocates who are experienced in medical malpractice cases, ensuring justice and accountability for those affected. At the Villari firm, our legal team has the experience and resources to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding medical malpractice.

We aim to empower and protect patient rights and hold healthcare providers accountable. Contact us today if you or someone you love was a victim of a surgical error.

What is the definition of a Surgical Error?

A surgical error refers to a preventable mistake that can happen in surgery. These errors can happen at any stage of the procedure, from preoperative planning to postoperative care. Surgical errors may result in long-term complications or even death.

If you suspect that you or one of your loved ones was a victim of surgical errors, immediately reach out to our medical malpractice attorney in Philadelphia, PA. You may be able to hold responsible parties accountable and be eligible to receive compensation for your damages.

What are the Most Common Types of Surgical Errors in Pennsylvania?

These are the most common types of surgical errors in Pennsylvania, including the following:

• Wrong-site surgery: This occurs when surgery is performed on the wrong side or site of the patient’s body.

• Performing the wrong surgery: This happens when a surgeon or medical team performs a procedure that was not intended or needed for the patient. It can involve operating on the wrong patient because of the error in the verification.

• Foreign object retention: Surgical instruments, sponges, or other foreign objects unintentionally left inside the patient’s body after surgery can lead to infections, pain, and other complications.

• Anesthesia errors: Mistakes related to anesthesia dosage and administration, such as incorrect dosages, failure to monitor the patient’s vital signs adequately, or allergic reactions to anesthesia drugs.

• Medication errors: Administering the wrong medication, incorrect dosages, or failing to consider a patient’s medication allergies or potential drug interactions during surgery.

• Surgical technique errors: Mistakes made during the surgical procedure itself, including damage to nearby structures, improper incisions, or errors in performing the intended surgical technique.

• Postoperative infections: Infections that develop after surgery due to inadequate sterilization, poor wound care, or failure to follow proper infection control protocols.

• Nerve or organ damage: Accidental injury to nerves, blood vessels, or organs during surgery can lead to long-term complications and impairments.

• Hemorrhage or excessive bleeding: Uncontrolled bleeding during or after surgery, often resulting from errors in surgical technique or inadequate measures to control bleeding.

Some of the mentioned surgical errors can have severe consequences for patients, necessitating further medical interventions, prolonging recovery time, causing physical and emotional distress, and potentially leading to long-term disabilities and death.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a surgical error, seek the advice of our Philadelphia, PA, medical malpractice lawyer. We can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

How Can I Prove That My Surgeon Made An Error?

Proving that your surgeon made an error can be a complex and challenging process. If you believe you have been a victim of medical malpractice and want to pursue legal action, here are some general steps you can take:

• Duty of care: You must establish that a doctor-patient relationship existed, and the surgeon owed you a duty of care. This is usually established by showing that you sought the surgeon’s professional services, and they agreed to provide treatment or perform surgery on you.

• Breach of duty: You must show that the surgeon breached their duty of care by failing to meet the standard of care. This can be established by demonstrating that the surgeon’s actions or omissions during the surgery fell below the accepted standard and constituted negligence.

• Causation: You need to establish a causal connection between the surgeon’s negligence and the harm you suffered. This involves demonstrating that the surgeon’s breach of duty directly caused your injuries or worsened your condition.

• Damages: You must prove that you suffered actual damages as a result of the surgeon’s negligence. This can include physical pain, emotional distress, additional medical expenses, lost wages, or other economic and non-economic losses.

The process and requirements for proving negligence may vary based on your specific circumstances and the laws in Philadelphia. It’s crucial to consult with our medical malpractice attorney to receive accurate and personalized advice tailored to your situation. Give us a call immediately.

What Should I Do If I Am a Victim of a Surgical Error?

Facing the aftermath of a surgical error can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. We trust healthcare professionals during surgical procedures, which makes it particularly devastating when errors occur. If you have found yourself in this unfortunate situation, knowing what steps to take to protect your well-being, assert your rights, and seek appropriate recourse is crucial.

• Seek immediate medical attention: If you are still in the hospital, notify your healthcare providers about the error and any resulting complications. If you have been discharged, seek medical attention from another healthcare professional to address the immediate effects of the surgical error.

• Document everything: Keep thorough records of all medical documents, including surgical reports, test results, prescriptions, and other relevant documentation. Take photographs of visible injuries or complications, if applicable. Detailed documentation will be crucial in building your case.

• Consult another healthcare provider: Obtain a second opinion from a qualified healthcare professional who can evaluate the situation and provide an independent assessment of the surgical error and its impact on your health. This can serve as valuable evidence in establishing the extent of the harm caused.

• Preserve evidence: If possible, preserve any physical evidence related to the surgical error, such as medical devices or objects left inside your body. This evidence can be vital in proving negligence or malpractice.

• Report the incident: Inform the hospital or surgical facility where the error occurred. Follow their formal reporting process and keep copies of any reports or correspondence. Additionally, consider reporting the incident to the appropriate regulatory bodies or medical boards.

• Seek legal advice: Consult with our medical malpractice attorney at THe Villari firm. We can evaluate the specifics of your case, help determine if you have a valid claim, and guide you through the legal process. Medical malpractice laws can be complex, so having legal representation is crucial to protecting your rights.

Facing a surgical error can be a difficult and complex journey, but taking the appropriate steps and seeking the proper support can help you start rebuilding your life and ensuring accountability for the harm you have experienced.

Uncover the Most Common Types of Surgical Errors With Our Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Philadelphia, PA

Don’t let the impact of a surgical error define your future. Empower yourself to pursue the compensation you deserve and hold the responsible parties accountable. As you navigate the aftermath of a surgical error, remember that our legal team at The Villari is ready to support you, protect your rights, and seek justice on your behalf.

Contact our medical malpractice attorney in Philadelphia, PA, today and take the first step toward regaining your life. If you or someone you love requires other legal services, we also assist in the following practice areas:

• Birth Injury
• Wrongful Death