When health conditions require surgery, it comes with a risk of complications—including malpractice. Although most surgeons and healthcare providers are diligent and talented, malpractice can happen even during minor surgeries. What can you do if you believe you were the victim of malpractice during a minor operation?
Read on to learn more about medical malpractice, then call the Law Offices of Tim Misny for legal assistance.
What is medical malpractice?
Medical malpractice is a type of negligence claim, which can be filed when a healthcare provider fails to meet industry standards for appropriate care. When their care falls below the accepted standard—what a practitioner of similar training and experience would do in the same situation—and injury results, they may be liable for damages. Plaintiffs may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.
In Ohio, plaintiffs typically have one year from the date of the surgery or when they discovered an issue to file a claim, and no more than four years. In addition to the initial filing paperwork, they also must file an affidavit of merit from a medical expert. The expert’s affidavit of merit is a sworn statement that they have reviewed the allegations and evidence, and the defendant’s actions fell below the accepted standard of care.
Common malpractice issues during minor surgery
The more complicated the surgery, the greater the risk, but even minor surgeries can result in malpractice. Here are some of the most common malpractice problems during minor surgery:
- Foreign object left in surgical cavity: Surgeons and nurses use a variety of tools during surgery, including sponges and clamps. Leaving foreign objects in the patient’s body can happen and is grounds for a malpractice suit.
- Operating on the wrong patient or body part: In rare cases, surgeons may operate on the wrong patient—or the right patient, but the wrong body part.
- Nerve or organ injury: Surgery is a delicate process. Surgeons may accidentally injure nerves or nick organs when operating.
- Anesthesia mistakes: Anesthesia mistakes, such as administering too much or too little, may result in patients waking up during surgery or experiencing other severe complications.
If you’ve been injured during minor surgery, the Law Offices of Tim Misny can help. Call today so we can evaluate your claim and explain your legal options.
Chat with an Ohio medical malpractice attorney today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your surgical medical malpractice case. When you’re the victim of healthcare negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
