Accidental Puncture and Laceration Medical Malpractice

Surgery is a placement of trust in the medical professionals and doctors in charge of the operation. The majority of patients feel understandably nervous, anxious, and unsure of what they’ll experience, and the pre-operation information they’re given is oftentimes offered in a quick, clinical exchange in a doctor’s office before being whisked away to surgery.

Patients trust that their doctors know what is best for them and that they’ll come out of the operation safely, but that’s not always the case. If you or a person you love has experienced harm due to an unplanned cut or puncture from a doctor, contact Pope & Howard, Atlanta’s leading medical malpractice attorneys.

Complications That Can Occur During Surgical Operations

In the majority of surgeries, the surgeons cut in the correct places and a positive result is achieved for the patient. However, sometimes in surgical operations, the surgeon may accidentally nick, cut or puncture in an unintended place. When that happens, medical complications can occur that include:

• Hemorrhaging
• Infection
• Internal bleeding
• Death

If the laceration or puncture is found and sealed, the patient may require additional medications or medical interventions like a blood transfusion. Depending on the extent of the damage, accidental lacerations or punctures can cause extended pain or recovery, as well as other health complications.

How to Prove Medical Malpractice in Accidental Puncture & Laceration

Because doctors are in a profession of care and respect, a case must be presented to establish liability. When trying to prove medical malpractice, there are four steps to consider:

1. Evidence that a doctor/patient relationship existed. This evidence can come in the form of doctor’s visits, proof of medical operations by said doctor, etc.
2. Establish that the doctor breached duty of care. A doctor has a “duty of care”, meaning that they’re responsible for the safety and well-being of their patient. You’ll need to provide evidence that the doctor breached that duty by acting outside of standard best practices or were negligent in some way.
3. Evidence that there were significant damages. There must be evidence that a patient suffered harm, pain, or damages during the operation outside of the normal post-operative recovery expectations.
4. Establish that the breach of duty was the cause of damages. The damages experienced by the patient must be shown to be directly caused by the doctor in question or caused as a result of the doctor’s negligence or breach of duty.

Accidental Laceration or Puncture Medical Malpractice Help with Pope & Howard

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a puncture or laceration during a surgical procedure, the experienced malpractice lawyers at Pope & Howard are here to help. Get just compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages and much more. Contact us today for a free consultation in Atlanta, GA: (404)-885-9999.

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