- Surgical instrument or foreign object left behind: This error occurs when surgical instruments, sponges, or other foreign objects are unintentionally left inside a patient's body. These objects can cause serious complications if not discovered and removed promptly.
- Anesthesia errors: Anesthesia is a critical part of surgery, and errors in administering anesthesia can lead to complications, including overdose, underdose, or adverse reactions to anesthesia medications.
- Inadequate sterilization: Surgical instruments and equipment must be properly sterilized to prevent infections. Inadequate sterilization can result in surgical site infections or other complications.
- Nerve or organ damage: Surgeons must be careful to avoid damaging nearby nerves or organs during a procedure. Inadvertent damage can lead to long-term complications and pain.
- Hemorrhage or excessive bleeding: Excessive bleeding during surgery can be life-threatening. Surgeons and the surgical team must take steps to control bleeding during the procedure.
- Infection: Infections can occur if proper aseptic techniques are not followed in the operating room. Surgical site infections can lead to prolonged hospital stays and other health issues.
- Post-operative care errors: Surgical errors can also happen during the post-operative phase. This may include medication errors, improper wound care, or inadequate monitoring of the patient's condition during recovery.
- Inadequate informed consent: Surgeons are required to obtain informed consent from the patient before a procedure. Failure to adequately inform the patient about the risks and alternatives associated with the surgery can lead to legal and ethical issues.
Wrong Site And Wrong Procedure Surgery Claims
Wrong-site and wrong-procedure cases are especially devastating because they often involve injuries that should never occur when basic safety rules are followed. In these claims, we look closely at how the surgical team confirmed your identity, marked the surgical site, and followed checklists before, during, and after the operation. By gathering records, witness statements, and information about the policies of facilities that serve Rio Rancho residents, we work to identify where the process broke down.
In New Mexico, these cases may involve not only the individual surgeon, but also the hospital, outpatient center, or others who shared responsibility for keeping you safe. A surgical error lawyer on our team can help you understand whether your situation may qualify as a wrong-site or wrong-procedure event, explain how fault is assessed, and discuss the types of damages that may be available for additional surgeries, lost income, and the emotional impact of what you endured.
What to Do If You Are a Victim of a Surgical Error
If you have been the victim of a surgical error, you may be entitled to compensation. However, it is important to take the right steps to protect your rights and your ability to recover the compensation you are owed.
Here are some steps you should take if you are a victim of a surgical error:
- Seek medical attention: If you are experiencing any pain or complications after surgery, you should seek medical attention right away. Your health and well-being should be your top priority.
- Document everything: Keep a detailed record of everything that happens after the surgical error, including your symptoms, medical treatments, and any other relevant information. This can be helpful when filing a medical malpractice claim.
- Do not admit fault: After a surgical error, you may be contacted by the hospital or the surgeon’s insurance company. It is important to remember that they are not on your side. Do not admit fault or say anything that could be used against you.
- Speak to an attorney: Medical malpractice claims are complex, and you will need an experienced attorney on your side. An attorney can help you understand your rights and your legal options.
How Our Rio Rancho Surgical Error Lawyers Can Help
If you have been the victim of a surgical error, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, recovering this compensation can be difficult, as you will need to prove that the surgeon or medical team was negligent.
At James Wood Law, our Rio Rancho surgical error attorneys have extensive experience handling these types of cases. We know what it takes to build a strong case, and we are not afraid to take on large hospitals and insurance companies.
When you choose us to handle your case, you can expect:
- Compassionate and personalized legal services
- Open and honest communication
- Aggressive representation both in and out of the courtroom
- Customized legal strategies tailored to your unique needs and goals
- Regular updates on the progress of your case
- 24/7 availability to answer your questions and address your concerns
Our team is here to help you every step of the way. We will fight to protect your rights and your best interests, and we will do everything in our power to help you recover the maximum compensation you are owed.
Call us today at (888) 579-3866 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation with our Rio Rancho surgical error lawyers.