Potential Dangers in Robotic Surgery

As advances in technology continue to increase at a rapid rate, patients can expect to see more technology used in the diagnosis and treatment of various illnesses.  In the past decade, the topic of robotic surgery has gained significant attention, both for the potential benefits and possible detriments of its use.  Many people question where the responsibility should lie for medical errors and surgical mistakes during robotic surgery.  Such information and continued research and development are critical knowledge for medical malpractice lawyers in Houston as they work to protect the rights of patients.

It is equally important for patients to understand how technology is changing healthcare.  One of the best ways to ensure that you get the care you deserve is by being your own best advocate.  Read on to learn more about robotic surgery and what you should do if you have been injured during a surgical procedure.

Robotic Surgery Facts and Information

Recently, reports have focused on robotic surgery between 2000 and 2013, and the results were not all positive.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the following:

• Between 2000 and 2013, 144 deaths occurred as a result of robotic surgery.
• Between 2007 and 2013, more than 1.7 million procedures included robotics.
• It is estimated that as many as 550 out of every 100,000 robotic procedures result in negative impacts for the patient.
• Since 2006, the number of deaths connected with robotic surgery has increased by 30 times.
• Most robotic surgeries currently performed are in urology and gynecology.  Other areas of surgery, such as cardiothoracic, neck, and head surgeries, are 10 times more likely to experience negative impacts, including death.

Even with the possible negative consequences, robotic surgery continues to be a prevalent area of advancement, innovation, and use in the medical field.  Use of robotics during surgery continues to be at the forefront of innovation and medical technology, and is definitely something that patients should be aware of.

Dangers and Possible Solutions: What Texans Need to Know

Unlike the potentially deadly miscalculations and negligent errors made by human hands, robots can be monitored and malfunctions can be traced.  Currently, there are five (5) common dangers to robotic surgery equipment, including:

• Sparking or arching during a procedure causing burns.  There have been 193 confirmed cases of patients being burned between 2000 and 2013.
• Breakage of equipment leading to foreign objects being retained in the body, of which there have been more than 100 reported cases, including one death.
• Uncontrolled movement of equipment leading to various injuries, of which 52 patients have been injured and at least two killed.
• System malfunctions, such as loss of video, etc., which accounts for more than 800 negative instances.

In addition to these equipment dangers, it is also noted that human error can still factor into the dangers of robotic surgery.  Many reports do not specify whether the robot directly caused the injury or death, or if human error was involved.  Because there is inconsistency in reports, some professionals and lawmakers are pushing for more video recording options in operating rooms.  In what is being considered a “black box” for operating rooms, it has been proposed that audiovisual monitoring of robotic surgeries could help establish the primary dangers and lead to more effective solutions.

Any surgical procedure is not without risk. However, it is the duty of the hospital and medical care providers to practice due diligence in obtaining a positive outcome.  Errors, negligence, and malfunctions cause devastating consequences for patients and their loved ones. Those responsible for errors and resulting injuries should be held accountable.

Medical Malpractice Lawyers Give Advice

If you believe that you have suffered an injury during a robotic surgery, it is important that you speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible in order to discuss your potential claim.  At MedMalFirm.com, our attorneys are experienced in managing medical negligence claims, including claims involving botched surgery or surgical errors.  Our firm has managed cases for clients all across Texas and elsewhere in the U.S.

We have helped clients injured by medical negligence associated with the use of medical devices during surgery.  Whether your injury was caused by human error, a defective medical device, or a surgical robot, we can help.  Find out more about your legal rights by requesting a free consultation with one of our attorneys. Fill out our online form or call us toll free at 877-887-4850 to get started.

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