While there may be a certain level of risk associated with virtually any type of operation, patients may rely on doctors to take the necessary steps to safeguard their well-being. Unfortunately, the presence of negligence or errors in even a minor operation could pose a significant threat to the health of patients in North Carolina. A family in another state was recently awarded a judgment of $21 million in a medical malpractice claim after complications stemming from surgical errors caused her to suffer permanent harm.
Health complications
The incident reportedly began when the woman was scheduled to undergo hernia surgery. Following the operation, she was only scheduled to remain in recovery for up to a day, but her stay was extended when her condition did not improve. After several days, a CT scan was ordered, and the results of this scan prompted a second operation that indicated she was suffering from a perforated bowel and an infection.
Reports indicate that complications from the initial operation caused her to suffer permanent harm. The lawsuit stated that she was forced to undergo numerous surgeries during what would end up being a nearly eight-month hospital stay. The woman and her husband subsequently filed a lawsuit against the doctor and the facility accusing them of negligence and they were awarded a substantial monetary judgment during recent legal proceedings.
Permanent injuries
While surgical errors remain a common form of medical malpractice, it could be difficult to grasp how the presence of such issues could impact one’s health until the unthinkable occurs. Individuals in North Carolina who suffer serious or permanent harm under such circumstances may wish to know more about their available legal avenues, and they could choose to speak with an attorney for guidance on the next steps to take. An attorney can evaluate the situation a client is facing, along with his or her injuries and financial needs, and assist in preparing to seek the restitution deserved via a medical malpractice claim against all parties deemed responsible.