Orthopedics care is a specialized field of medicine that deals with the musculoskeletal system, like bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Patients usually seek orthopedic care to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance their overall quality of life. While most orthopedic procedures and surgeries are successful, there are times when medical professionals make errors, leading to devastating consequences.
If you or a loved one has experienced orthopedic malpractice, we’ve gathered all the information you need to understand what orthopedic malpractice is, examples of such cases, and the injuries that can happen. We also have created a guide for you on seeking aid and the importance of consulting a medical malpractice lawyer.
Understanding Orthopedic Malpractice
Orthopedic malpractice, like any other form of medical malpractice, occurs when a healthcare professional deviates from the accepted standard of care, causing harm to a patient. This deviation can happen in many forms, including surgical errors, misdiagnoses, improper treatment, or a failure to provide informed consent.
Understanding orthopedic malpractice can empower patients to advocate for their own healthcare and safety. It also allows those affected to make informed decisions about their treatment.
Examples of Orthopedic Malpractice
Many types of injuries can result from orthopedic malpractice. Here are some of the most common examples of orthopedic malpractice.
Surgical Errors
One of the most common forms of orthopedic malpractice is surgical errors. These forms of malpractice range from performing the wrong procedure, operating on the wrong body part, or making mistakes during surgery, like damaging nerves or blood vessels.
For instance, a surgeon might mistakenly operate on the wrong knee. This could leave the patient with unnecessary pain and disability.
Misdiagnosis
A misdiagnosis can also lead to orthopedic malpractice. A physician may incorrectly diagnose a patient’s condition or fail to see a serious issue.
An example of this could be misdiagnosing a fracture as a sprain. Because of the misdiagnosis, this could result in delayed treatment and further complications.
Improper Treatment
Orthopedic malpractice can occur when a healthcare provider prescribes the wrong treatment or fails to provide appropriate care. This might include administering the wrong medication, recommending unnecessary surgery, or neglecting to explore non-invasive treatment options.
Informed Consent Violations
Before undergoing orthopedic surgery, patients must provide informed consent and understand the potential risks and benefits. Orthopedic malpractice can occur if a patient is not properly informed or if the physician fails to obtain proper consent. Patients must have the opportunity to make informed decisions about their treatment.
These examples highlight how important it is for patients to be aware of orthopedic malpractice to protect their rights and choices.
Injuries Resulting From Orthopedic Malpractice
Orthopedic malpractice can lead to severe and life-altering injuries for patients. Some common injuries resulting from this kind of malpractice include:
- Nerve Damage
- Infections
- Fractures and Dislocations
- Embolisms or Blood Clots
- Loss of Mobility
- Chronic Pain
- Psychological Trauma
- Death
Take Action: Seek Aid For Medical Malpractice
If you believe you have been a victim of orthopedic malpractice, you should take swift and informed action immediately. Here are some steps you should take.
- Document Everything — Keep detailed records of your medical history, treatments, and communications with healthcare providers. Photographs, medical bills, and prescriptions can also be essential evidence for your case.
- Seek a Second Opinion — Consult another orthopedic specialist to evaluate your condition and determine whether malpractice occurred. Their expert opinion can be very valuable when building your case.
- Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney — A qualified medical malpractice attorney specializes in cases like yours. They will be able to navigate you through the legal process, gather the appropriate evidence needed, and advocate on your behalf.
- Collect Witness Statements — If there were witnesses to the malpractice, gather their statements to corroborate your claims.
- Don’t Delay — Statutes of limitations vary by jurisdiction, so it is crucial for you to act immediately. Consult a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible to meet all legal deadlines.
Engage the Top-Rated Orthopedic Malpractice Lawyer in New York, NY
Orthopedic malpractice can have devastating consequences for patients, resulting in life-altering injuries as well as emotional trauma. By being aware of what orthopedic malpractice is and its potential impact, patients can play an active role in their well-being and getting the quality care they deserve.
The Law Offices of Steve Newman have an extensive network of board-certified physicians to help analyze medical malpractice occurrences. Medical malpractice cases are handled on a contingency basis, and you only pay a legal fee if and when the case is settled. We’re here to guide you through the legal process and get the justice and compensation you deserve for the harm you have endured.
You don’t have to go through this challenging situation alone. Take the next step towards legal action to make a significant difference in your recovery and the future of your well-being.
We provide free phone consultations to identify your legal options and are here to protect you. Contact us today.
