Gallbladder Surgery Injuries

Gallbladder surgery, while routine, can quickly become dangerous when errors occur. Injuries such as a cut bile duct or accidental puncture often result from preventable negligence and leave patients with life-altering complications. If you or a loved one has been harmed during a gallbladder procedure, a Prince George’s County personal injury attorney can provide the legal support you need.

At Foran & Foran, we represent victims of gallbladder surgery injuries, as well as those facing other surgical complications, including bowel damage and gastric bypass errors. Our attorneys will guide you through the legal process and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Reach out today for help.

Gallbladder surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, is one of the most common abdominal procedures performed in the United States. While laparoscopic techniques have made the surgery less invasive, they have also introduced unique risks. Studies show that 17.1% of patients undergoing gallbladder surgery experience at least one complication, with higher rates of injury reported during laparoscopic procedures compared to traditional open surgery. When errors occur due to negligence, patients may suffer serious complications such as bile duct injuries, internal bleeding, or infections. If you or a loved one has experienced harm from a gallbladder surgery mistake, a Prince George’s County gallbladder surgery injury lawyer can help you pursue justice.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the standard method for gallbladder removal, favored for its reduced recovery time and smaller incisions. However, the procedure requires advanced training and precise technique. Complications are often linked to:

• Misidentification of anatomy. Surgeons may mistake critical structures, such as the bile duct, leading to severe damage.
• Inadequate training. Surgeons lacking proper experience with laparoscopic tools are more prone to errors.
• Conversion to open surgery. While sometimes necessary for safety, transitioning from laparoscopic to open surgery can increase the risk of complications if not handled properly.

Patients undergoing gallbladder surgery deserve the highest standard of care. When negligence occurs, the consequences can be devastating.

Complications from gallbladder surgery range from mild to life-threatening. Some of the most common include:

• Bile duct injuries. Damage to the bile duct can cause bile leakage, infections, and long-term digestive issues.
• Internal bleeding. Postoperative hemorrhaging, requiring blood transfusions or emergency interventions, occurs in about 3.6% of cases.
• Infections. Surgical site infections or peritonitis can result from improper sterilization or unrecognized bile leakage.
• Respiratory complications. Extended ventilator use or reintubation may be necessary, especially after complicated surgeries.

These complications are not only physically debilitating but also financially and emotionally burdensome for patients and their families.

The outcomes of gallbladder surgery injuries vary widely, depending on the nature of the complication and the timeliness of intervention. Patients who experience bile duct injuries or severe bleeding often require additional surgeries, extended hospital stays, and months of recovery.

In cases where negligence is a factor, such as failure to recognize a bile duct injury during surgery, the harm to the patient is compounded. Studies show that bile duct injuries go unrecognized intraoperatively in up to 32.4% of cases, leading to delayed treatment and more severe complications.

If you suspect that your injury resulted from medical negligence, consulting a Prince George’s County medical malpractice attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Patients recovering from gallbladder surgery should be vigilant for symptoms indicating complications, such as:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain;
• Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes;
• Fever, chills, or other signs of infection;
• Nausea or vomiting that does not subside; and
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness.

When these symptoms are present, immediate medical attention is necessary. If healthcare providers fail to diagnose or address complications promptly, the resulting harm may warrant legal action.

Errors during gallbladder surgery, such as bile duct injuries, internal bleeding, or infections, can lead to serious complications and lasting harm. At Foran & Foran, we leverage our extensive experience in medical malpractice cases to help patients hold negligent providers accountable. Our team will investigate your case, consult with medical experts, and work to secure compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and 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.