Surgery sometimes becomes a necessary option for preserving your well-being and quality of life. While modern medicine saves lives, there remain potential risks.
Understanding common types of surgery errors might help you identify if you have been the victim of medical malpractice during a procedure.
Performing the wrong surgery
- If a patient does not receive a proper diagnosis or a doctor wrongly assesses the situation, they may prescribe unnecessary or even harmful surgery.
- Serious mix-ups, such as administering the wrong surgery or operating on the wrong part of the body, may occur due to negligence. This may qualify as medical malpractice.
Injuries during operations
- Despite precautions, surgeries can sometimes lead to injuries.
- Examples include accidental cutting or damaging parts of the body during an operation, leaving medical equipment in the body, or causing infections that complicate recovery.
- These errors may lead to serious consequences for patients.
Understanding medical malpractice
Not every surgical complication constitutes medical malpractice. Generally, medical malpractice happens because those operating have failed to adhere to proper procedures or performed their tasks with negligence.
Arizona upholds strict laws and rules for anyone practicing medicine. Failure to comply can lead to serious consequences. Common causes of surgical injuries include poor communication between hospital staff, shortage of staff, or even instances of medical professionals working while intoxicated.
Surgery often leads to an improved quality of life for patients, but staying aware of the risks remains a good idea. Educating yourself about your rights as a patient and working with your healthcare provider throughout the surgical process helps keep you safe. By staying informed and involved, you can mitigate the risk of injuries and receive the quality care you deserve.
Seek Legal Help After a Surgical Error
If you or a loved one is injured due to a surgical error, we recommend you contact us here at Harris, Powers & Cunningham PLLC to discuss your legal options. Our medical malpractice attorneys may be able to help you get the compensation you need to recover after being injured. We provide a no-obligation, free initial consultation. Call 602-910-6779 or send us an e-mail to request your consultation.