Surgical Malpractice Lawyer in Edwardsville, IL

Surgical procedures are meant to improve health, but errors can result in severe complications or even permanent injuries. Patients trust their surgeons, but mistakes due to negligence can have devastating consequences. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a surgical error in Edwardsville, you may be entitled to compensation.

Chicago Injury Lawyer fights for victims of surgical malpractice to ensure they receive the justice and financial recovery they deserve.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Lawyer?

• Experienced in Medical Malpractice Cases: Our attorneys have a strong record of success in representing victims of surgical malpractice in Edwardsville.
• Familiarity with Local Hospitals: We understand surgical procedures at Anderson Hospital – 6800 IL-162, Maryville, IL 62062, and HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital – 1 St Elizabeth Blvd, O’Fallon, IL 62269.
• No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
• Aggressive Legal Representation: We stand up against hospitals and insurance companies to secure fair compensation for victims.
• Personalized Case Strategy: Every case is unique, and we develop customized legal strategies based on your specific circumstances.

Common Surgical Errors in Edwardsville

Surgical malpractice can lead to severe health complications. Common errors include:

• Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: Mistakes in patient identification or site marking can lead to operations on the wrong body part or the wrong individual.
• Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving medical tools inside a patient’s body can result in severe infections and long-term damage.
• Anesthesia Errors: Overdosing or underdosing anesthesia can lead to complications like brain damage, respiratory distress, or awareness during surgery.
• Nerve or Organ Damage: A slight miscalculation during surgery can cause irreversible nerve or organ damage, leading to lifelong disabilities.
• Post-Surgical Negligence: Inadequate monitoring after surgery can result in undetected infections, internal bleeding, or dangerous complications.

How Surgical Malpractice Happens

Surgical mistakes often stem from preventable negligence. The most common causes include:

• Lack of Preoperative Planning: Failure to review patient history, confirm the procedure, or ensure proper pre-surgical preparation.
• Poor Communication: Breakdowns between surgical teams, anesthesiologists, and nurses can lead to critical errors.
• Surgeon Fatigue: Long shifts without rest can increase the likelihood of mistakes in the operating room.
• Defective Medical Equipment: Malfunctioning surgical tools or improper sterilization can cause severe complications.
• Deviation from Standard Procedures: Ignoring established safety protocols increases the risk of surgical malpractice.

Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Edwardsville

Illinois law allows surgical malpractice victims to seek compensation for their injuries. The statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Special exceptions may apply in cases involving minors or delayed injury recognition.

Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims

Victims of surgical malpractice in Edwardsville may be entitled to:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for corrective surgeries, hospital stays, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Financial recovery for work missed due to medical recovery or permanent disability.
• Pain & Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence or recklessness.
• Wrongful Death Compensation: Families of deceased victims may seek damages for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in Edwardsville

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Get treated by another doctor to prevent further harm and assess the severity of your injury.
2. Obtain Your Medical Records: Collect all medical documentation, including surgical reports, imaging scans, and doctor’s notes.
3. Report the Malpractice: File a formal complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to document the incident.
4. Consult a Malpractice Lawyer: An experienced attorney can review your case and determine the best legal course of action.

Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Edwardsville

Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Edwardsville are handled in Madison County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert testimony to establish that a medical provider deviated from the accepted standard of care, causing harm to the patient.

Local Resources for Victims in Edwardsville

• Illinois State Bar Association – Legal assistance and malpractice law guidance.
• Madison County Health Department – Reporting medical negligence and patient support services.
• Edwardsville Medical Support Network – Support groups for victims of medical malpractice.
• Edwardsville Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery services for those affected by surgical malpractice.
• Edwardsville Police Department – 333 S Main St, Edwardsville, IL 62025 – Assistance with criminal negligence cases.
• Madison County Sheriff’s Office – 405 Randle St, Edwardsville, IL 62025 – Law enforcement support for malpractice-related cases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)