All surgeries come with inherent risks. Even the simplest procedure can result in devastating consequences, if there are unforeseen complications. Surgeons require years of education and training before they can even step foot into a surgical suite.
When a patient agrees to surgery, they also agree to the potential risks that accompany it. Anesthesia risks, possible infections, and more can all happen, even if the procedure goes exactly as planned. However, one of the risks that patients often do not consider is the potential for a surgeon to leave a foreign object or sponge behind in the body at the end of the surgery.
When a surgeon or the nursing staff forgets to remove these foreign objects, a patient can suffer serious complications, including infection, pain and suffering, and the necessity for another surgery. This is one of the most preventable surgical errors possible, yet many patients suffer from this issue each year. Fortunately, these patients can recover compensation for the damage they suffer.
At Gainsburgh, Benjamin, David, Meunier & Warshauer, L.L.C., our medical malpractice attorneys have decades of experience assisting clients that have suffered injuries and other damages due to the negligence of medical professionals. We possess the legal knowledge, proficiency, and resources to conduct thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.
Common Objects Left Behind
Many surgical instruments are used in every surgery, with major surgeries requiring upwards of 600 tools. When you undergo surgery, you expect your surgeon and medical team to exercise reasonable caution and care throughout your procedure. Healthcare professionals have to track each tool carefully to ensure that none are left behind. However, for one reason or another, these instruments get forgotten.
Sponges account for nearly 67% of all foreign objects left behind following surgery. Other common foreign objects include:
- Needles
- Scalpels
- Forceps
- Retractors
- Masks
- Screws
- Broken bits of tubing or other surgical equipment
Complications of Foreign Objects in the Body
As you can imagine, if something is left in your body that does not belong, it can cause significant damage. Some of the complications foreign objects left by healthcare professionals can cause include:
- Infections
- Damage to surrounding organs, muscles, tissues
- Internal bleeding
- Pain and suffering
- Additional surgery
- Death
Medical malpractice cases can be complicated and require attorneys with legal prowess and an understanding of the medical field. Fortunately, the attorneys at Gainsburgh, Benjamin, David, Meunier & Warshauer, L.L.C. possess both. Our law firm has assisted countless patients throughout Louisiana and Mississippi in securing the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
