All surgical procedures have risks, but some complications stem from preventable mistakes. Surgical errors can have severe consequences, including long-term health issues or even loss of life.
Below are some of the most common surgical mistakes.
Wrong-site surgery
Wrong-site surgery occurs when a procedure is performed on the wrong body part. For example, a surgeon may operate on the left knee instead of the right. This error is often due to miscommunication, incorrect medical records or failure to follow pre-surgery protocols. Wrong-site surgery often counts as medical malpractice because there are few scenarios where a competent surgeon would operate on the wrong body part.
Foreign objects
Surgical tools such as sponges, gauze or clamps should always be removed before closing an incision. If left inside the body, these objects can cause infections, pain and other complications. Surgeons and nurses should implement procedures like thorough checklists to ensure that foreign objects are not left behind after surgery.
Anesthesia errors
Anesthesia keeps patients safe during surgery. However, too much anesthesia can lead to brain damage, while too little may cause the patient to wake up during the procedure. Medical teams must administer the appropriate dosage and monitor vital signs throughout the operation.
Manual errors
Even a minor slip-up by a surgeon can damage nearby organs, leading to severe internal bleeding. This can happen due to improper use of surgical instruments or lack of precision during the procedure.
Medical institutions owe you a legal duty of care. Surgery must be performed according to professional standards. If you were injured by medical treatment that fell below this standard, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Seek legal guidance to learn more about medical malpractice law.
