Every year there are a good number of Ohio residents who require surgical treatment for a range of medical issues. When going under the knife, there is always hope that one will not experience any complications and that the surgical staff will get through one’s procedure error-free. Unfortunately, surgical errors are more common than people think, leaving victims to experience physical, emotional and financial damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help victims of surgical mistakes seek relief for their losses.
According to current statistics, up to 440,000 people in the United States die every year as a result of medical mistakes, and many more suffer injuries. It is believed surgical errors contribute to a good chunk of those injuries and deaths. What causes surgeons to make mistakes?
There are a number of reasons why surgical errors occur. According to a recent report, researchers at Columbia University believe that short-term stress in the OR is to blame for many of them. Short-term stress in this study is loosely defined as anything that causes distraction in the operating room. So, things like loud monitors, music, unexpected people coming and going from the OR, and negative thoughts — among other things — all can cause a surgeon to unintentionally harm a patient.
When a surgical mistake is made that causes a patient harm in any way, those responsible may be held accountable. Victims may pursue personal injury and any other legal claims applicable to their cases in an Ohio civil court in an effort to seek compensation for their losses. Those who think they may have a case can turn to legal counsel for a case review and assistance pursuing legal action if doing so is deemed appropriate.