Foreign Objects & Retained Surgical Items: Seeking Justice In Georgia
You certainly do not expect your doctor or surgeon to make negligent mistakes like leaving behind foreign objects after the surgery concludes. But the truth is that this does happen to people in Georgia every year, and you must be aware of the potential for an adverse outcome. Retained foreign objects can lead to extensive pain and discomfort, along with the need for further surgery – and recovery time – to correct the issue.
Here at Hilley & Frieder, P.C., we bring the experience that you need to the case, seeking justice for the mistake and helping you maximize your compensation. Surgery is a very complex process, but doctors are also held to a high standard and must provide a reasonable level of care to their patients. Our Atlanta team can help you sort through the complex details of the case and determine what legal options you have.
What Are Common Retained Surgical Items?
A foreign object retained after surgery is much different than a fixation device – such as screws or plates that help bones heal – and has been left behind accidentally. It does not have anything to do with the recovery and can have a highly negative impact on that recovery, perhaps leading to serious complications like infection, internal bleeding and – in severe cases – even death. Some common items include:
- Clamps
- Gauze
- Knives
- Needles
- Pins
- Scissors
- Sponges
- Swabs
- Syringes
- Towels
Potential complications include nausea and vomiting, difficulty eating, changes to sleeping patterns, foul odors, the onset of fever, stitches coming undone or general difficulty healing that goes beyond what you would expect after your specific surgery. In some cases, issues like infection or bleeding may necessitate emergency care.
Contact Us For A Consultation
There is no risk when contacting us, as we provide completely free initial consultations to injury victims. If you are wondering what next steps to take, contact us online or call our helpful team today at 404-795-6099.
