Surgical Errors

The majority of surgical procedures carried out in the healthcare sector go ahead without any problems for the patients.

Errors do occur and this is highlighted by the fact that under a number of reporting agencies, relating to the incidence of claims brought in the healthcare sector, surgery is the largest area in respect of which claims are brought.

Patients for whom surgical procedures have caused adverse problems are typically as a result of a delay in the surgery being carried out, sometimes as a result of a misdiagnosis, poorly performed surgery, lack of adequate pre surgery risk assessment and explanation to the patient.

There are other reasons for patients suffering as a result of surgery and at times this can involve the patient receiving surgery involving new techniques. There is a learning curve associated with new surgical procedures, for example key hole surgery.

When performing key hole surgery a surgeon is, to an extent, removed from the feel of the organ or tissue that they are interested in. Manipulating a very small device within a human body requires a huge level of skill and from time to time this is not always delivered. As a result clients can experience very serious consequences, often requiring immediate corrective surgery to repair the damage.

Surgical care also extends to the care provided to a patient after the surgery has been completed. Infections following surgery can lead to complications which can place a client in danger, so can inappropriate attempts to rehabilitate a patient.

Unlike other forms of medical errors, those that arise as a result of surgery are much more noticeable and this is why perhaps they account for the higher number of claims being brought against healthcare providers.

Claims are not just limited to the pain and ongoing discomfort that can arise from surgical errors. Many patients suffer tremendous psychological trauma as a result of errors. This can stem from situations that have arisen where their very lives have been at real risk, to being left with irreparable damage and scarring for life.

Specialist help is available to people who believe they may have been affected by incorrect surgical procedures. The Medical Accident Group and its lawyers are both empathetic and professional when dealing with all enquiries.