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Mistakes in the medical industry can happen for many reasons, but some of the most disastrous errors occur during surgeries. Negligence is not always to blame, as there are always risks and the potential for things to go wrong during surgery. However, when patients suffer harm because of careless oversights or a deviation from the acceptable standard of medical care, there could be cause for legal action.
Our medical malpractice attorneys are here to help you understand your rights and enforce them. Meet with a knowledgeable Bala Cynwyd surgical error lawyer for legal advice and guidance about your legal options.
How Negligence Can Lead to Surgical Mistakes
Surgical mistakes resulting from human missteps or oversight can cause catastrophic harm that could and should have been prevented. Some examples of surgical errors include:
- Anesthesia errors
- Operating on the wrong location of the body
- Infections resulting from unsanitary operating rooms
- Mix-ups that lead to carrying out surgeries on the incorrect patients
- Leaving surgical instruments in the patient’s body
- Failing to disclose vital information and the potential risks of a procedure to a patient
- Pursuing an unnecessary or ineffective surgery based on a patient’s diagnosis
Careless errors in the operating room can have lasting adverse consequences, including severe infections, that require patients to undergo additional procedures. In the most severe cases, surgical errors can result in death.
Recoverable Damages Through a Civil Claim
If someone can prove they experienced harm because of a medical professional’s negligence, they can pursue compensation for their current and anticipated losses. Examples of recoverable damages in this type of claim include:
- Medical care, including ongoing treatment and necessary corrective procedures
- Prescriptions and medical equipment or devices
- Loss of earnings for time off work the patient needs for recovery
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium, guidance, and the enjoyment of life
- Mental and emotional trauma and distress
A Bala Cynwyd surgical mistake attorney can answer specific questions about potential compensation during an initial consultation.
Medical Expert Certificate of Merit
Pennsylvania medical malpractice regulations require the submission of a Certificate of Merit within 60 days of filing a petition with the court. Per the guidance of 231 Pennsylvania Code Rule § 1042.3, a surgical error lawyer in Bala Cynwyd representing the patient must obtain a written statement from an appropriate licensed professional. The affidavit must indicate the medical professional reviewed the case and found the patient suffered harm because a surgeon failed to provide an acceptable and professional standard of medical care. The statute does not require the healthcare professional completing the certificate to be present or testify during the trial.
Schedule a Consultation With an Experienced Surgical Error Attorney in Bala Cynwyd
Surgeons receive extensive training to complete life-saving procedures with little room for errors. While not all surgical mistakes result from negligence, failing to provide an appropriate level of medical care could have life-threatening and even fatal repercussions. When a negligent healthcare professional makes avoidable mistakes, causing bodily harm and other losses, civil laws give harmed individuals the right to pursue compensation. Contact a Bala Cynwyd surgical error lawyer today to schedule an appointment and review your case.
