Surgeries can be necessary and life-saving procedures, but they also carry the risk of medical mistakes and malpractice.
In some cases, surgery mishaps can lead to severe injuries, permanent disabilities or even death. Here are some of the most common types of surgery mishaps that result in medical malpractice.
Incorrect diagnosis
According to a 2019 report from the American Academy of Family Physicians, 1 out of 3 deaths and disabilities arising from medical malpractice happened due to inaccurate or delayed diagnosis. Cancer topped the list of ailments that were incorrectly diagnosed and later required an unnecessary surgery.
Surgical site infections
A surgical site infection is a common type of malpractice that occurs after surgery. This can occur when a surgeon or medical staff member fails to properly clean the surgical site, leading to the growth of harmful bacteria and infections.
Improper surgical techniques
Surgeons have a responsibility to perform surgeries using proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury or complications. Improper surgical techniques can lead to significant damage to surrounding organs, nerves or tissue, and can result in permanent disabilities or additional surgeries.
Wrong-site surgery
Wrong-site surgery is a serious and preventable mistake in which a surgeon operates on the wrong body part, or operates on the correct body part but in the wrong location. This type of mistake can result in permanent injuries or disabilities.
Retained surgical instruments
Retained surgical instruments occur when a surgeon leaves a foreign object (such as a surgical instrument or sponge) inside a patient after surgery. This can lead to serious health problems and may require additional surgeries to correct.
In the event of a surgical mishap or medical malpractice, patients and their families have the right to seek compensation for any harm or injury suffered.
