Foreign Objects Are Left in Bodies Following Surgery with Alarming Frequency
An experienced surgical malpractice attorney can fight on your behalf
Doctors and surgeons make mistakes far more frequently than most people realize. Many thousands of patients awake from surgery every year without realizing their doctors have left foreign objects not meant to remain somewhere inside their bodies. The results of such a mistake can devastate the patient. The New York City medical malpractice lawyers at Segan, Nemerov, Singer, Sonin & Tancer, P.C. understand the potential ramifications of such surgical errors and how to fight to recover deserved compensation for the victim of such a mistake.
What kinds of objects might be left in my body following surgery?
Surgeons use many different types of tools and instruments in close quarters during surgery. In the absence of careful work procedures, one or more of these implements may be left inside the body of the patient when surgery ends:
- Sponges
- Drill bits
- Wires
- Swabs
- Masks
- Gauze
- Needles
- Scissors
- Clamps
- Screws
The symptoms of a foreign body left in your surgical site resemble those of infection:
- Puffiness around the surgical area
- Pain
- Additional possible infections
What should I do if I suspect that a foreign body has been left behind?
If you suspect that a foreign object may be the cause of these symptoms, demand an X-ray. If this X-ray shows a foreign object or if the medical professionals refuse your request, seek medical attention and contact an attorney familiar with medical malpractice and personal injury law immediately. An attorney can help you build a solid case against the doctor or hospital at fault and help you recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Be very wary if the hospital or doctor involved in your case offers to write the additional costs of removing the foreign body off your bill or to compensate you in some other indirect fashion. Hospitals and doctors who do this likely wish only to protect themselves from a malpractice suit, and if they succeed, you are likely to receive far less compensation than you deserve. Always consult an experienced personal injury lawyer before signing any release or document provided to you by the doctor or hospital.
Let us help you fight for your rights in the wake of surgical malpractice
Surgical mistakes come in all shapes and sizes. If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a surgical mistake or some other form of medical malpractice, contact an experienced attorney today. In New York City, reach out to Segan, Nemerov, Singer, Sonin & Tancer, P.C. either online or at (212) 696-9100.
