Postoperative Respiratory Failure

Compassionate Prince George’s County Lawyers Fighting for Families Impacted by Preventable Surgical Errors

Postoperative respiratory failure is a critical condition that often results from preventable errors, such as improper anesthesia management, inadequate monitoring, or failure to address underlying health conditions. This life-threatening complication can leave patients struggling with long-term health issues or, in the most tragic cases, result in death. Families and victims of such incidents deserve answers and accountability for the harm caused. A Prince George’s County postoperative respiratory failure attorney can guide you in seeking justice and holding negligent providers responsible.

The attorneys at Foran & Foran approach these cases, focusing on uncovering the facts and ensuring those affected receive the support they need. By thoroughly reviewing medical records, consulting experts, and identifying lapses in care, we work to build a strong case for compensation. Whether pursuing financial recovery for medical bills, lost wages, or the emotional toll of such a traumatic event, our team is committed to advocating for your rights and helping you move forward after this preventable complication.

What Causes Postoperative Respiratory Failure?

Postoperative respiratory failure (PRF) is one of the most serious pulmonary complications following surgery. Defined as unplanned reintubation, prolonged mechanical ventilation, or inadequate oxygenation, this condition can result from several contributing factors. These include pre-existing medical conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity, or advanced age, as well as surgical and anesthetic complications.

Common causes of PRF include:

• Anesthetic effects — prolonged sedation or neuromuscular blockade can impair respiratory drive, making it difficult for patients to breathe independently after surgery;
• Surgical factors — operations involving the chest, abdomen, or airway are more likely to cause respiratory complications due to the stress on the lungs and surrounding tissues;
• Atelectasis — this condition, characterized by collapsed lung tissue, often develops after inadequate deep breathing or coughing during recovery; and
• Aspiration — inhalation of stomach contents or secretions into the lungs can lead to severe inflammation or infection, further compromising respiratory function.

If you or a loved one has suffered from PRF after surgery, a Prince George’s County postoperative respiratory failure lawyer can help determine if medical negligence played a role in your complications and pursue accountability for your injuries.

How Often Does Postoperative Respiratory Failure Happen?

PRF is a relatively common complication, with an incidence rate of up to 7.5%. Among serious postoperative complications, PRF is the most frequent and carries significant risks for patients. Research has shown that patients who develop PRF face 3.74 times higher odds of death compared to those without this complication. Additionally, PRF has been linked to:

• Extended hospital stays — on average, patients with PRF require nine additional days of hospitalization;
• Increased hospital costs — cases of PRF add approximately $53,000 in excess hospital charges; and
• Higher readmission rates — patients with PRF are 1.47 times more likely to be readmitted within 90 days of discharge.

These statistics highlight the serious consequences of PRF and the importance of proper surgical and postoperative care. A Prince George’s County postoperative respiratory failure attorney can help you explore your legal options if you believe negligence contributed to your complications.

How To Prevent Postoperative Respiratory Failure

Preventing PRF requires a comprehensive approach before, during, and after surgery. Medical providers must evaluate patient-specific risks and implement evidence-based strategies to minimize the likelihood of respiratory complications.

Key preventive measures include:

• Preoperative risk assessment. Identifying high-risk patients, such as those with COPD, obesity, or other comorbidities, is critical. Tailoring surgical plans and anesthesia protocols to account for these risks can significantly reduce complications.
• Optimized anesthetic management. Careful dosing of sedatives and neuromuscular blockers ensures that patients regain respiratory function promptly after surgery.
• Postoperative monitoring. Continuous monitoring of oxygen levels, respiratory rate, and lung function allows for the early detection of respiratory distress. Immediate intervention, such as supplemental oxygen or reintubation, can prevent severe outcomes such as air embolisms.
• Lung expansion techniques. Encouraging deep breathing exercises, coughing, or the use of incentive spirometry helps prevent atelectasis and maintains healthy lung function.

Negligence at any stage of the surgical process can contribute to PRF, leaving patients to bear the physical, emotional, and financial burden of preventable harm. Legal action may hold providers and hospitals accountable and promote safer practices for future patients.

What Kind of Damages Can Be Claimed for Postoperative Respiratory Failure?

Victims of PRF caused by medical negligence may be entitled to compensation for their losses. These claims can be brought regardless of whether the negligence occurred during an inpatient stay or outpatient procedure. Potential damages include:

• Medical expenses — this includes the cost of prolonged hospital stays, additional surgeries, mechanical ventilation, and other treatments required to manage respiratory failure;
• Lost wages — time spent recovering from PRF often results in lost income, and severe cases may reduce future earning capacity;
• Pain and suffering — PRF can cause significant physical discomfort, emotional distress, and loss of independence, warranting compensation for these intangible harms;
• Wrongful death claims — families who lose a loved one to PRF can pursue damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial impact of their loss.

A skilled Prince George’s County postoperative respiratory failure lawyer can guide you through seeking damages, ensuring your claim accounts for the full extent of your suffering and financial losses. Postoperative respiratory failure is a serious yet often preventable complication. When negligence contributes to this life-threatening condition, legal action can provide victims and their families with the justice and resources they deserve.

Have You or a Loved One Suffered Postoperative Respiratory Failure?

Postoperative respiratory failure is a serious complication that can often be traced to preventable negligence, such as improper monitoring or anesthesia mismanagement. At Foran & Foran, we are committed to helping victims and families hold healthcare providers accountable for these life-altering errors. Our experienced attorneys will investigate your case, consult with medical experts, and fight for the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional pain and suffering. To schedule a free consultation with one of our medical malpractice lawyers in Prince George's County, give us a call at (301) 441-2022. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.

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