Neurosurgeon Malpractice
Neurosurgery is a highly specialized field that requires precision and skill. Any errors during brain or spinal surgeries can result in catastrophic consequences, including permanent paralysis, cognitive impairment, or death. Post-surgical care is also critical, and mistakes in monitoring a patient's condition can lead to serious complications.
At Foran & Foran, P.A., our Prince George's neurosurgeon malpractice attorneys have the experience and knowledge to handle these complex cases. We will work diligently to investigate every aspect of your case and fight for the compensation you are entitled to for the harm caused by surgical errors. Reach out today to learn how we can protect your rights and guide you through this process.
How Neurosurgical Mistakes OccurNeurosurgery is among the most complex fields of medicine, and the risks associated with these surgeries are high. Mistakes can occur due to various factors, including insufficient preoperative planning, failure to recognize critical symptoms or lack of attention during surgery. These errors may result from inadequate communication between the surgical team, fatigue, or inexperience. According to data, nearly 20% of neurosurgeons face a medical malpractice claim each year in the United States, often stemming from missteps in critical procedures.
Some common mistakes include:
- Misdiagnosis. Failing to correctly identify conditions such as brain tumors, aneurysms, or spinal disorders can delay necessary treatment and lead to irreversible damage.
- Surgical errors. Mistakes during surgery, such as operating on the wrong site, severing nerves, or improper handling of medical instruments, can result in permanent disability.
- Improper postoperative care. Failing to provide appropriate follow-up care or monitor for complications such as infections or internal bleeding can exacerbate the patient's condition.
These errors not only prolong a patient's suffering but can also cause permanent injury, disability, or death. Given the precision required in neurosurgery, even the smallest oversight can be catastrophic.
Neurologist vs. Neurosurgeon MalpracticeUnderstanding the distinction between neurologist and neurosurgeon malpractice is important. While both specialties deal with the brain and nervous system, their roles differ significantly. Neurologists primarily focus on diagnosing and managing neurological disorders through non-surgical methods, while neurosurgeons perform surgical procedures on the brain, spine, and nerves.
Determining whether the neurologist or neurosurgeon is at fault in a malpractice case can be complex. For example, a neurologist may fail to diagnose a brain tumor, while a neurosurgeon may make an error during the tumor's removal. Both parties can be held accountable, but the legal strategy may differ based on their duties. At Foran & Foran, we investigate these distinctions to ensure that the appropriate party is held responsible for the patient's harm.
Consequences of Neurosurgical ErrorsNeurosurgery malpractice can have life-altering effects on patients and their families. Victims may suffer from severe neurological damage, paralysis, or chronic pain. In some cases, errors lead to cognitive impairments or worsening pre-existing conditions.
For example, a mistake during spinal surgery could result in permanent loss of mobility, significantly impacting the patient's ability to work, enjoy daily activities, and live independently. In more severe cases, the victim may require lifelong medical care and rehabilitation. In fact, the average indemnity paid in closed neurosurgical malpractice claims is $439,146, the highest of all medical specialties.
Neurosurgical errors often lead to immense financial strain, in addition to the physical and emotional toll. Long-term medical care, physical therapy, and lost wages can create financial burdens that many families find overwhelming. The attorneys at Foran & Foran will help you seek compensation to cover these extensive costs.
Types of Damages You Can RecoverIf you have suffered due to a neurosurgeon's negligence, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses—this includes past, current, and future medical treatments related to your injury, such as surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages—if your injury has prevented you from returning to work, you can seek compensation for lost income, both current and future
- Pain and suffering—neurosurgical errors can result in long-term physical pain and emotional suffering, for which victims can recover damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life—many patients experience a diminished quality of life after a neurosurgical mistake, especially if the injury results in a disability
Recovering these damages can provide crucial financial relief and help support your long-term recovery and rehabilitation. Seeking compensation also holds negligent parties accountable, ensuring victims receive justice for their harm. Our team at Foran & Foran is dedicated to securing the full range of damages available to you, helping you move forward after a life-altering event.
Attorneys with a Track Record of Success in Medical Malpractice CasesForan & Foran has a longstanding reputation for excellence, having secured many six- and seven-figure verdicts and settlements for our clients. With over 85 years of combined experience, we are dedicated to pursuing justice for victims of medical negligence. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, give Foran & Foran's Prince George's County neurosurgeon malpractice attorneys 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.