Orthopedic surgery is a common solution for many musculoskeletal problems, but like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. While some complications can be avoided with proper medical care, others may be unavoidable due to individual health factors. It’s essential to understand the difference between expected and unexpected complications to determine when to seek legal help. This blog post will explore orthopedic surgery complications, their causes, and when it’s appropriate to consult with a medical malpractice lawyer.
Potential Complications
Orthopedic surgery complications can arise due to various factors, such as age, underlying health conditions, and the specific surgical procedure. Some common expected complications include:
- Infection: The risk of infection is present in any surgical procedure. Orthopedic surgeries are no exception, especially when dealing with implants or prosthetics.
- Blood clots: Blood clots can form after surgery, particularly in the legs, and can be life-threatening if they break loose and travel to the lungs.
- Nerve damage: Orthopedic surgeries often involve working near nerves, which can result in temporary or permanent nerve damage.
- Postoperative pain: Pain is a normal part of the recovery process, but it can be managed with medication
and other techniques. - Lengthened recovery time: The recovery period may be longer than expected due to individual health factors or complications.
Unexpected Complications
While some complications are expected, others may arise due to medical negligence or substandard care. Unexpected complications can include:
- Wrong-site surgery: This occurs when the surgeon operates on the wrong body part or site.
- Surgical instruments left inside the body: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication.
- Uncontrolled bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can lead to serious consequences.
- Anesthesia errors: Incorrect administration of anesthesia can result in severe harm or even death.
- Inadequate postoperative care: Poor care after surgery can lead to preventable complications, such as infections or respiratory problems.
When to Seek Legal Help
If you experience any unexpected complications, it’s crucial to seek legal advice from a medical malpractice lawyer. A skilled attorney can help determine whether the complication was avoidable and resulted from substandard care. Some signs that you may need legal assistance include:
- Unusual symptoms or pain after surgery
- Prolonged recovery time
- Unsatisfactory explanation for complications from your healthcare provider
- Suspicion of medical negligence or wrongdoing
- Denial of further treatment or support by your healthcare provider
Orthopedic surgery complications can be expected due to individual health factors, but sometimes, they may arise due to medical negligence. It’s essential to understand the difference between expected and unexpected complications and seek legal help if necessary. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your orthopedic surgery, consult with a medical malpractice lawyer to explore your options and protect your rights.
At the Law Office of Marc Walwyn, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that unexpected complications can take on patients and their families. Our experienced medical malpractice lawyers are committed to providing personalized attention and support throughout the legal process. If you suspect that your orthopedic surgery complications resulted from substandard care, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help. Don’t let medical negligence ruin your life – let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.