Surgical Site Infections

Prince George’s County Medical Malpractice Lawyers Pursuing Justice for Patients Harmed by Preventable Surgical Errors

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the most preventable, yet severe complications patients can face after a medical procedure. These infections often result from lapses in hygiene, inadequate sterilization of instruments, or failures to follow proper surgical protocols. When infections develop, the consequences can be devastating, ranging from delayed healing and prolonged hospital stays to severe conditions like sepsis or the need for additional surgeries. If you’ve suffered harm due to a preventable infection, a Prince George’s County surgical site infection lawyer can help you hold negligent providers accountable for their actions.

The attorneys at Foran & Foran are committed to seeking justice for patients harmed by surgical site infections. We take a meticulous approach to each case, examining medical records, identifying breaches in care, and consulting with leading medical experts to build a strong claim. These preventable complications should never go unchecked, and we work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Reach out to our team today to discuss how we can assist you in pursuing justice and securing the resources you need for recovery.

Common Causes of Surgical Site Infections

Studies indicate that 0.5% to 3% of patients undergoing surgery experience an SSI, leading to more extended hospital stays—averaging 7 to 11 additional days—compared to patients without infections. SSIs are mainly preventable with the proper protocols and attention to hygiene. However, lapses in care often lead to these harmful outcomes. Some common causes include:

• Inadequate sterilization. Failure to properly sterilize surgical instruments and operating rooms increases the risk of bacterial contamination.
• Improper antibiotic use. Neglecting to administer antibiotics before surgery or using incorrect dosages can leave patients vulnerable to infection.
• Prolonged surgeries. Longer procedures expose surgical sites to higher levels of bacterial contamination.
• Foreign materials. Using implants or other foreign objects can create environments conducive to bacterial growth.

Patients suffering from an SSI often endure unnecessary pain, additional surgeries, or even life-threatening conditions such as sepsis. A Prince George’s County surgical site infection attorney can identify negligent actions and hold providers accountable for failing to prevent these infections.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Early detection of SSIs is critical for effective treatment. Patients and healthcare providers should remain vigilant for the following symptoms:

• Redness and swelling — inflammation around the surgical site can indicate infection;
• Pain or tenderness — persistent or worsening pain may indicate complications;
• Drainage or discharge — pus or other fluids leaking from the incision could signal bacterial contamination; and
• Fever or chills — systemic symptoms like fever often accompany severe infections or organ damage.

Patients experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention to prevent further complications. If healthcare providers ignore or improperly treat these symptoms, consulting with a Prince George’s County surgical site infection lawyer is essential to exploring legal options.

Preventing Surgical Site Infections

The majority of SSIs can be prevented through diligent care and adherence to established protocols. Medical professionals must implement strategies to minimize the risk of infections, including:

• Preoperative skin preparation. Thoroughly cleansing the surgical site reduces the bacterial load before making an incision.
• Strict sterilization practices. Sterile techniques during surgery ensure a clean environment.
• Antibiotic prophylaxis. Administering the right antibiotics at the correct time is vital for reducing infection risk.
• Limiting operating time. Minimizing the duration of surgery helps decrease exposure to contaminants.

When surgeons or nurses neglect these precautions patients are placed at unnecessary risk. A Prince George’s County surgical site infection attorney can review medical records and consult with experts to determine if negligence occurred. Long-Term Effects and Damages

For many patients, the consequences of a surgical site infection extend far beyond the immediate recovery period. The long-term effects may include:

• Chronic pain — lingering discomfort can persist even after the infection is resolved;
• Additional surgeries — some infections require extensive corrective procedures, increasing recovery times and medical expenses; and
• Emotional distress — patients often experience anxiety or depression stemming from prolonged health issues or disfigurement caused by infections.

Victims of SSIs may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and physical and emotional suffering. Legal action helps patients recover financially and holds negligent providers accountable, reducing risks for future patients.

Have You Suffered Due to a Preventable Surgical Site Infection?

Surgical site infections are often the result of medical negligence, such as inadequate sterilization, improper antibiotic use, or prolonged surgical procedures. At Foran & Foran, we are committed to helping patients hold medical providers accountable for these avoidable complications. Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, identify lapses in care, and fight for the compensation you deserve. To learn more about how the Prince George's County medical malpractice lawyers at Foran & Foran can help with your case, 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.