Hysterectomies are one of the most common gynecological surgeries performed in the U.S., but that does not mean they are without risk or always performed error-free. Hysterectomy malpractice can and does occur.
During a hysterectomy, all or part of the uterus is removed. It is typically removed to resolve other health problems such as uterine cancer, endometriosis, or chronic pelvic pain. The location of the uterus is what increases the risk of malpractice in a hysterectomy. It is very close to other internal organs, which can be damaged during the procedure, and the simple fact that it is a surgical procedure creates risk too.
Hysterectomy Complications
Most medical malpractice cases involving hysterectomy involve damage to other organs or post-surgical infections. Some of the more common complications due to hysterectomy are:
- bladder injuries
- ureteral injuries
- perforation of the bowel or small intestine
- mechanical obstruction of the intestines
- vaginal vault granulation, and
- post-operative infections.
Malpractice Liability
Not all hysterectomy-related injuries and infections qualify as medical malpractice. In order to qualify as a medical malpractice situation, there must have been negligence on the part of the doctor, clinic, or other medical professionals involved in the procedure. Examples of situations that would qualify as malpractice include:
- negligent actions that caused or contributing to any of the injuries or complications listed above,
- failure to inform the patient of the risks involved in hysterectomy,
- failure to obtain patient permission to perform a procedure, except in emergency situations,
- improper diagnosis and/or unnecessary surgery.
Proving Hysterectomy Malpractice
Simply experiencing infection, injury, or unexpected outcomes after a hysterectomy does not mean it is medical malpractice. The best way to determine if you have a hysterectomy malpractice case is to schedule a consultation with a medical malpractice attorney at The Beregovich Law Firm. Our medical malpractice attorney will examine your situation for signs of negligence and then work with you to gather proof of negligence to advance your case.
Schedule a free case consultation with Andres Beregovich at The Beregovich Law Firm with offices in Orlando and Miami by calling (800) 631-9009 or contacting us online.
Photo by Piron Guillaume on Unsplash
