Wrong-site surgeries are tragic, preventable events. This type of error can have catastrophic consequences for patients and their families.
The term “wrong-site surgery” can be used to describe several different types of errors:
- Wrong side surgery (e.g., left limb instead of right)
- Wrong site surgery (e.g., wrong location on spine)
- Wrong procedure
- Wrong patient
How Do Wrong Site Surgeries Happen?
It might seem difficult to believe that a surgeon could amputate the wrong limb or operate on the wrong patient altogether. How does this happen, exactly?
Some possible factors include:
- Doctor fatigue
- Staffing issues
- Distractions
- Failure to have proper procedures in place
- Staff communication breakdowns
Often, a wrong-site surgery is the result of several errors. There are usually problems with systems and processes, not just an individual surgeon.
Wrong-Site Surgeries and Malpractice
To be clear, these types of “never” events are generally compensable malpractice claims.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a wrong-site surgery, it’s imperative that you involve a highly skilled medical malpractice attorney. Our team offers free, no obligation consultations. All discussions are confidential. Give us a call today.
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