Foreign Objects Left in the Body
Even simple surgical procedures can have unexpected complications. Some of these complications can be prevented if proper protocols are followed. But when medical professionals lose focus, or miss crucial details, patients can suffer serious harm. In some cases, foreign objects may be left in the patient after the surgery is completed, leading to severe pain, illness, or even death, as a result of the surgical error.
Such was the case for a Florida woman, who is suing the hospital where she gave birth in 2003. The patient received an epidural during labor and successfully delivered her son via C-section. A couple of months later, however, she started experiencing severe back pain, which has persisted throughout the past 14 years. Finally, in 2017, a CT scan revealed the cause of the pain: when doctors administered the epidural, they left an inch-long section of the needle lodged in her spine.
The complications from the needle have gotten worse as time progressed. The patient has suffered from extensive nerve damage, leaving her with limited use of her left leg and foot. The piece of the needle is still inside her, as removing it from its current location in the spine would risk permanently paralyzing her. However, leaving it in will likely yield the same result, if the nerve damage continues to progress.
Hospital Allegedly Knew Patient Was at Risk When Discharged
The patient’s lawsuit alleges that the hospital knew that the epidural needle had broken and become lodged in her spine, but that they chose not to tell her, and let her leave the hospital with the needle inside her. Notes in her chart specifically mention an unsuccessful needle attempt, which her lawyer claims is alluding to the broken piece remaining in the spine. If her care team had acknowledged the mistake and removed the needle right away, she could have been spared the pain and suffering she has endured for the past 14 years. Now, she will be dependent on physical therapy and pain medication for the rest of her life, and is in danger of permanently losing mobility in her left leg.
Leaving a foreign object inside a patient is medically careless and possibly incredibly dangerous; lying to a patient about their condition is an even graver matter. Having a system of safety checks in place can help patients undergoing surgery avoid lasting damage. Until more stringent safety protocols are enforced, however, patients are still potentially put at risk every time they go under the knife.
New Jersey Surgical Error Lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP Advocate for Victims of Surgical Errors
If you or a loved one has suffered harm during or after a surgical procedure, call the New Jersey surgical error lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP. Our knowledgeable, experienced legal team has successfully represented clients in all types of medical malpractice cases, including surgical error cases. We are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve and holding those responsible for your injuries accountable. With offices conveniently located in Edison, Red Bank, and Toms River, we help victims of surgical errors throughout New Jersey. Call us today at 732-777-0100 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP has purposely remained small in size, because it is important to us that we get to know our clients and their needs. Larger NJ injury firms may churn out case after case, but that’s not how we operate. Partners Barry Eichen, William Crutchlow, and Daryl Zaslow have created a firm with the resources to handle complex litigation, and a team that takes your case personally.
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