Numerous Surgical Mistakes Alleged in Botched Operation

Medical errors and surgical mistakes are among the most traumatic preventable injuries that a patient can experience.  Patients rely on surgeons and hospital staff to follow proper protocols and regulations in order to resolve medical conditions and protect their overall health and wellbeing.  When surgeons, healthcare providers, or hospital staff fail to follow proper procedures, patient lives are put at risk.

Read on to learn more about a tragic example of surgical mistakes. If you are concerned about the level and quality of care you have received, contact our Houston medical malpractice lawyers to discuss your case.

Botched Operation Example Case

In January 2016, the California Department of Public Health released information about eight hospitals that were being fined for medical errors or surgical mistakes.  Among those incidents is the case of a woman who was victimized by negligence when a surgeon and operating room staff failed to follow protocols designed to protect patients.  The negligence alleged in this example case includes failure to follow proper “time out” procedures before beginning an operation, failing to maintain proper records throughout the surgical process, and operating on the wrong body part.

This tragic example of surgical mistakes began when the patient suffered damage to her left ring finger.  Diagnosed with tendon damage, the patient was scheduled for surgery to correct the damage and improve mobility.  Communication between the physician and hospital was inconsistent, with some forms not indicating which finger was to be operated on.  The hospital surgical schedule had the correct information, but the operating room team failed to confirm the surgical site before operating.  The result of these horrifying mistakes resulted in the wrong finger being operated on.

Surgical Mistakes and Your Rights

Known as preventable adverse events (PAE’s), surgical mistakes and medical errors occur at an alarming rate. In 2015, research estimated that over 400,000 patients die each year due to PAE-related injuries or illness.  These preventable incidents are not only traumatic, but they are in violation of patient rights.

Every patient has the right to quality healthcare that is in accordance with applicable medical standards and laws.  When these rights are violated, it is important for patients to understand their rights and what options they may have for legal recourse.  Many patients are eligible to file a lawsuit against a negligent healthcare provider in pursuit of recovery for physical and other damages.

To learn more about your rights as a patient, contact MedMalFirm.com to speak with one of our medical malpractice attorneys. We offer every client a free consultation, so fill out our online form to get started.