Surgical errors, though rare, represent a serious breach of patient safety and trust. As experienced surgical error attorneys in Washington, D.C., Simeone & Miller LLP understands the devastating impact these mistakes can have on your life and health. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a surgical error, our dedicated team can ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. 

What Are Surgical Errors?

Surgical errors are serious mistakes that occur during surgery. They are preventable and go beyond the known risks of surgery. These errors can include operating on the wrong site or the wrong patient, performing the wrong procedure, or leaving surgical instruments inside the patient’s body after closing the incision. Such incidents are classified as “never events”—errors that should never happen in the practice of medicine. These errors often have significant consequences on patient health and can lead to further medical complications or the need for additional surgeries.

Common Causes of Surgical Errors

Surgical errors often stem from various factors that disrupt the typical flow of a medical procedure. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Communication Failures: Miscommunications among medical staff during pre-surgical planning or in the operating room can lead to critical mistakes.
  • Fatigue: Surgeons and medical staff working long hours may experience fatigue, which can impair judgment and reduce hand-eye coordination.
  • Inadequate Preoperative Planning: Insufficient preparation or overlooked patient medical history can result in errors, such as neglecting necessary equipment or failing to anticipate complications.
  • Incompetence: Sometimes, errors occur because a surgeon has not been properly trained or lacks the requisite skills to perform the procedure successfully.
  • Insufficient Staffing: Limited staff can lead to rushed procedures and inadequate attention to patient needs, increasing the risk of errors.
  • Negligence: Lapses in standard care protocols or oversight can result in preventable mistakes during surgery.
  • Medication Errors: Incorrect medication or dosage during surgery can have serious repercussions, compounding other surgical complications.

Impact on Patients

The impact of surgical errors on patients can be profound. Physically, such errors may lead to severe complications, extended recovery times, or permanent disability. Emotionally, patients often suffer from increased stress, anxiety, and a loss of trust in medical professionals. Financially, the additional medical treatments needed to correct or mitigate the effects of a surgical error can lead to significant financial strain, including lost wages from time off work and high medical bills. 

Legal Recourse for Victims

Victims of surgical errors have the right to seek legal recourse to address the harm they’ve suffered. This process often involves filing a medical malpractice lawsuit against the responsible parties, including surgeons, medical staff, or the hospital itself. Successful claims may result in compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. Additionally, in cases of gross negligence, punitive damages might be awarded to deter similar negligence in the future. At Simeone & Miller, we help victims understand their rights and guide them through the legal steps necessary to secure justice and financial recovery for the damages they have endured due to surgical errors.

Contact Our Experienced Washington, D.C. Surgical Mistakes Lawyers

At Simeone & Miller LLP, we stand ready to support victims of surgical errors with comprehensive legal representation. If you’ve been affected by a surgical error, don’t wait. Contact us today to learn how we can advocate for your rights and help you move forward from this challenging experience.

Simeone & Miller LLP, based in Washington, D.C., also provides personal injury and medical malpractice legal services across Maryland and Virginia. In Maryland, our services extend to Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick. In Virginia, we serve clients in Arlington County, Alexandria, Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.