NOTE: Our law firm does not handle medical malpractice cases. This article is for informational purposes only. Information found in the article does not constitute as formal legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship.
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What Are Common Types of Surgical Mistakes?
Not all poor outcomes during surgery amount to malpractice, but when a medical professional deviates from accepted standards and causes harm, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Nearly 15 million surgeries are performed annually across the United States, so it is no surprise that mistakes can happen.
Some of the most egregious, yet preventable, surgical mistakes include:
- Performing surgery on the wrong site or organ
- Operating on the wrong patient
- Leaving tools or sponges inside the body
- Accidental damage to healthy tissue or organs
- Surgical burns or anesthesia mismanagement
These errors are often labeled “never events,” meaning they should never happen if proper precautions are followed.
Why Do Surgical Mistakes Occur?
Surgical mistakes occur due to factors such as:
- Surgeon fatigue or impairment
- Poor communication between the surgical staff
- Lack of training or experience with the procedure
- Inadequate pre-operative planning or patient assessment
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for a Surgical Error in Maryland?
In Maryland, you generally have five years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit or three years from the date the injury was discovered, whichever comes first.
If a surgical error has changed your life or caused the death of someone you love, you deserve answers and accountability. Whether the error occurred during a routine procedure or a complex operation, you have the right to pursue compensation.
If you believe you have a medical malpractice claim, call us. We can refer you to a lawyer who handles these cases.