Surgery always carries some risk. However, when something goes wrong due to a preventable mistake, it may be more than just an unfortunate outcome.
In some cases, surgical errors could amount to medical negligence. What are the most common types of surgical errors?
Wrong site or wrong procedure
One of the most serious types of surgical error is operating on the wrong part of the body. This might include removing the wrong organ or operating on the wrong limb. In some cases, the wrong patient may be taken into surgery altogether. These errors are often the result of poor communication, incomplete records or failure to follow basic safety protocols. They are usually considered “never events,” meaning they should never happen if proper care is taken.
Instruments left inside the body
Surgical teams sometimes leave sponges, clamps or other tools inside a patient’s body. This can lead to severe infections, pain or further surgery to remove the item. Mistakes like this often occur when surgical counts are not done correctly. Failing to account for all tools before closing an incision may indicate that the care fell below accepted medical standards.
Nerve or organ damage
Unintentional injury to nearby nerves or organs can happen during surgery. In some cases, this may be an accepted risk of the procedure. However, if the damage occurs due to carelessness, poor technique or lack of training, it might suggest negligence. The same applies to excessive bleeding or damage caused by a delay in responding to complications.
Not all surgical errors are negligent. Nonetheless, when a mistake is avoidable and causes harm, it may point to a failure in the duty of care. If this has happened to you, it may be time to seek legal guidance.
