Surgical mistakes can have devastating consequences for patients and their families. When you turn to the Glen Burnie surgical error lawyers in Baltimore with Schochor, Staton, Goldberg and Cardea, P.A., you gain access to a team deeply committed to protecting your rights. Our experienced team is here to help you pursue justice and recover full compensation for the harm caused by medical negligence.
What Are Surgical Errors?
Surgical errors refer to preventable mistakes made during a procedure due to negligence or a breach of the standard of care. These errors often stem from poor communication, lack of preparation, or inattention by the surgical team, leading to harm that could have been avoided. When these mistakes occur, the consequences can range from minor complications to severe, life-altering injuries.
Examples of surgical errors can vary widely but are often serious. Some common mistakes include operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside the patient, or administering the incorrect dosage of anesthesia. These errors disrupt the patient’s recovery process, often causing additional harm that requires further treatment or surgery:
- Wrong-site surgery – Operating on the incorrect body part.
- Anesthesia errors – Overdosing, underdosing, or failing to monitor the patient during surgery.
- Post-operative negligence – Failing to monitor patients for infections or complications after the procedure.
- Retained surgical instruments – Leaving tools or sponges inside the patient’s body, leading to infections or additional surgeries.
- Incorrect surgical procedure – Performing a procedure intended for another patient due to miscommunication or administrative mistakes.
- Nerve damage – Causing a permanent or temporary nerve injury during surgery due to improper technique or lack of precision.
- Unnecessary surgery – Performing procedures that were not medically required, exposing the patient to avoidable risks and complications.
- Failure to sterilize equipment – Using unsterilized tools or environments, resulting in severe infections or sepsis.
- Improper incision size or location – Making incisions in the wrong area or too large, leading to unnecessary scarring or complications.
- Medication administration errors – Providing the wrong drug or dosage during surgery, causing adverse reactions or impairing recovery.
- Improper suturing or wound closure – Failing to close incisions correctly, leading to wound dehiscence or prolonged healing times.
- Delayed emergency response – Failing to act quickly when complications arise during surgery, worsening the patient’s condition.
- Wrong patient surgery – Operating on the incorrect patient due to misidentification or lack of adherence to protocol.
When surgical errors happen, patients face not only physical challenges but also emotional and financial burdens. These mistakes are entirely preventable when healthcare providers adhere to professional standards. Understanding how surgical errors occur can empower you to take the necessary steps to protect your rights and pursue compensation for the harm caused.
Common Causes of Surgical Errors
Surgical errors often occur due to negligence or systemic problems within healthcare facilities. These mistakes are not inevitable but are the result of preventable factors that compromise patient safety. Understanding what leads to these errors can help shed light on the responsibility of medical professionals to provide the highest standard of care.
Many surgical mistakes arise from issues such as fatigue, lack of adequate training, or failure to adhere to established protocols. When healthcare providers cut corners or work under undue stress, the likelihood of mistakes increases significantly. Factors like miscommunication between staff or incomplete preparation before surgery further contribute to these preventable errors:
- Miscommunication – Errors in relaying critical patient information or surgical plans.
- Inadequate preparation – Failing to thoroughly review medical records or surgical procedures beforehand.
- Staff shortages – Creating rushed environments where details are overlooked.
These causes emphasize the importance of proper planning, communication, and resources within healthcare settings. Surgical errors caused by negligence or systemic issues often leave patients facing unnecessary complications or prolonged recovery times. Identifying the underlying cause of an error is critical to holding healthcare providers accountable and preventing future harm.
Legal Rights for Surgical Error Victims in Glen Burnie
If you suffered harm due to a surgical error, you have the right to pursue compensation under Maryland’s medical malpractice laws. These laws are designed to protect patients and hold healthcare providers accountable when their negligence leads to unnecessary harm. Taking legal action allows you to address the consequences of a preventable medical mistake.
Victims of surgical errors may be entitled to recover a range of damages to help rebuild their lives. Compensation can include medical expenses for corrective procedures or ongoing treatment, lost wages from missed work, and pain and suffering caused by physical and emotional distress. In cases involving severe or permanent injuries, victims may also receive damages for future care needs or diminished earning capacity.
Our Glen Burnie medical malpractice attorneys have the experience and resources needed to handle complex surgical error cases. We understand the challenges you face and are committed to pursuing justice on your behalf. With our team by your side, you can feel confident taking action to secure the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Surgical Error
If you believe a surgical error has harmed you, acting quickly can protect your health and strengthen your claim. Knowing what steps to take next can provide clarity during this difficult time. Here is a simple guide to help you move forward effectively:
- Reach out to experienced surgical malpractice attorneys in Glen Burnie.
Schedule a free consultation with legal professionals who focus on surgical error cases. They can evaluate your situation, provide guidance on what to expect, and help you pursue appropriate compensation for your injuries.
- Get a professional evaluation to confirm the mistake.
Consult a trusted medical professional who can identify what went wrong during the procedure. This second opinion will clarify the nature of the error and outline potential solutions for addressing your condition.
- Secure all relevant medical documents and evidence.
Your attorney will gather surgical reports, follow-up notes, and any diagnostic images connected to your procedure. These records will be critical in demonstrating the link between the error and the harm you suffered.
By taking these steps, you can focus on understanding the extent of the error and seeking the support you need. Every action you take brings you closer to holding the responsible parties accountable and protecting your future.
How Surgical Malpractice Attorneys in Glen Burnie Can Help
Pursuing a surgical malpractice claim requires a thorough investigation and strong legal advocacy. Our attorneys carefully review the details of your case, consult trusted medical experts, and gather the evidence needed to prove negligence. From working directly with insurers to negotiating fair settlements, we focus on building a compelling claim on your behalf.
We also calculate the full extent of your damages to ensure no loss is overlooked. This includes accounting for medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and the emotional impact of the error. With compassionate support every step of the way, our Glen Burnie surgical malpractice attorneys are here to help you seek the resolution you deserve.
Why Choose Us as Your Best Surgical Negligence Lawyers in Glen Burnie?
Our firm has built a strong reputation for successfully handling complex medical malpractice cases, including those involving surgical errors. With a track record of achieving favorable outcomes, we are dedicated to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable for the harm they cause. Our attorneys bring extensive experience and a results-driven approach to every case.
We understand that no two cases are alike, which is why we offer a personalized approach tailored to your unique circumstances. From the moment you contact us, we dedicate our full attention to crafting a legal strategy that aligns with your goals. Our commitment to excellence and access to extensive resources allow us to deliver the representation you deserve, making us the trusted choice for surgical negligence cases in Glen Burnie.
Local Glen Burnie Hospitals and Surgical Facilities
Surgical errors can occur in well-known hospitals and surgical centers throughout Glen Burnie, including Baltimore Washington Medical Center and similar facilities. These institutions are trusted to provide safe and competent care, but even a single mistake during surgery can lead to devastating consequences for patients. When errors happen in these environments, understanding the facility’s policies and internal procedures is critical to building a strong case.
Our firm has extensive experience handling surgical malpractice claims involving local healthcare providers in Glen Burnie. We understand the unique protocols these facilities follow and how to identify breaches in care standards. This insight allows us to craft effective strategies tailored to each client’s case, no matter the complexity of the claim.
By combining our local knowledge with a dedicated approach, we are well-equipped to advocate for clients who have been harmed due to surgical negligence in these trusted institutions. Our team’s familiarity with the healthcare landscape in Glen Burnie is a valuable asset when pursuing justice for victims.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Malpractice in Glen Burnie
Patients often have many questions when considering a claim for surgical malpractice, especially after experiencing complications that may have been preventable. Understanding your rights and the process can help ease your concerns and prepare you to take action. Below, we address some of the most common questions about surgical error claims in Glen Burnie.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Surgical Malpractice in Maryland?
Under Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 5-109, victims of surgical malpractice generally have five years from the date of the injury or three years from when the injury was discovered to file a claim, whichever occurs first. This statute of limitations establishes a critical timeframe for preserving your right to seek compensation. Failing to meet this deadline may result in your case being dismissed, regardless of its merit.
Taking swift action is essential to gathering evidence and building a strong case. Over time, medical records may be lost, and witness memories may fade, making it more challenging to prove negligence. Consulting with a knowledgeable surgical malpractice attorney early ensures that your case is filed within the appropriate timeframe, allowing you to focus on pursuing justice.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Surgical Malpractice Attorney?
Maryland law allows victims to work with attorneys on a contingency fee basis, as outlined under the Maryland Attorneys’ Rules for Professional Conduct Rule 19-301.5 Fees (Rule 1.5). This means you pay nothing upfront or out of pocket unless your attorney successfully recovers compensation on your behalf. If your case is resolved with a favorable settlement or verdict, a percentage of the recovery is allocated as the legal fee, which will be clearly explained during your initial consultation.
This fee structure enables victims to seek justice without the financial stress of upfront legal costs. By operating on a contingency basis, we provide access to skilled legal representation for anyone affected by surgical malpractice, regardless of financial circumstances. Our focus remains on achieving the best outcome for your case while minimizing additional stress for you and your family.
What If the Surgical Error Happened During an Emergency Procedure?
Even during emergency procedures, Maryland medical professionals are required to meet an acceptable standard of care. This means healthcare providers must act reasonably and adhere to established protocols, even in high-pressure situations. If negligence occurs, such as failing to follow safety standards or making preventable mistakes, the injured party may have grounds for a malpractice claim.
In cases involving emergency procedures, our attorneys carefully evaluate medical records, consult with expert witnesses, and analyze whether negligence played a role in the surgical error. Maryland law recognizes that emergency situations present unique challenges, but it also holds medical professionals accountable for avoidable errors. We are prepared to investigate your claim thoroughly to identify any breaches in the standard of care and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you still have questions about filing a claim, our experienced team is here to help you better understand your options. We offer guidance tailored to your unique situation and are ready to assist with every aspect of your surgical malpractice case. Our goal is to provide you with clear answers and the support you need as you move forward.
Get Help From Our Knowledgeable Surgical Malpractice Attorneys in Glen Burnie
When a surgical error jeopardizes your health and leaves you seeking answers, we are here to support you. Your compassionate Glen Burnie surgical malpractice lawyer with Schochor, Staton, Goldberg and Cardea, P.A. will work tirelessly to evaluate your case and pursue justice for the harm you endured. Call us today or complete our secure online form to schedule your free consultation and learn more about your legal options.