Negligent Gallbladder Op and When to Claim Compensation
If a gallbladder op goes wrong, the patient may be left with long-term problems. When is it appropriate to make a claim for compensation?
Risks of a cholecystectomy
Although a cholecystectomy ( a gallbladder op) is a common procedure, this does not mean that it is simple and risk-free. The fact that it is often carried out through key-hole surgery can add to the potential for problems.
- Complex and varied anatomy of the biliary system and nearby anatomical structures and organs can limit the surgeon's field of vision
- A nearby structure, such as the bowel, can be damaged in error
- Damage may occur to the bile duct through mis-identification, obstruction or an accidental cut
Depending on the nature of the error, the patient may suffer a variety of unpleasant and debilitating consequences. Any damage caused during the operation should be promptly identified and rectified, securing additional specialist support if necessary.
Where this does not occur, the patient may experience permanent problems, such as developing sepsis and the consequences of this life-threatening condition.
When to claim compensation
It should be possible to claim compensation when it is found that an act of negligence has occurred on the part of a medical professional and that that negligence has caused the patient to suffer a worse outcome than should have been the case.
In these circumstances, a successful claim addresses the financial impact of lost income or the costs of specialist equipment or care.
A medical professional may be found to have been negligent in the course of a gallbladder operation for a number of reasons including the following:
- Failing to ensure clarity of vision before attempting to carry out the surgery
- Negligence in the surgical procedure or technique
- Mis-identifying structures in the biliary system
- Failing to identify any unintentional damage and failing to respond appropriately
Speak to a legal specialist
A solicitor who specialises in medical negligence law is essential if you think that you may be in a position to pursue a claim.
Medical negligence claims can be extremely complicated and the skills of an experienced solicitor are vital to ensure the best settlement of your claim.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers and a history of success in high-value, complex claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
We can offer No Win No Fee medical negligence funding which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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