Surgical Malpractice Lawyer in Orland Hills, IL

Surgical procedures should be safe and effective, but when mistakes occur, they can lead to devastating consequences. Patients trust surgeons and medical professionals to provide the highest standard of care. However, negligence can result in life-altering injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has suffered from a surgical mistake in Orland Hills, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to help you seek justice and compensation.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Lawyer?

• Proven Success in Medical Malpractice Cases: Our legal team has a strong record of securing compensation for victims of surgical malpractice in Orland Hills and across Illinois.
• Familiarity with Local Hospitals: We understand medical procedures at Advocate Christ Medical Center – 4440 W 95th St, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, and Palos Health – 12251 S 80th Ave, Palos Heights, IL 60463.
• No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
• Aggressive Legal Representation: We take on negligent hospitals, surgeons, and insurance companies to ensure victims receive maximum compensation.
• Personalized Legal Approach: Every case is unique, and we develop customized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation.

Common Surgical Errors in Orland Hills

Surgical errors can lead to severe complications. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: Errors in identification can lead to procedures being performed on the wrong body part or the wrong person.
• Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving tools, sponges, or gauze inside a patient, causing infections and requiring additional surgeries.
• Anesthesia Errors: Incorrect anesthesia administration can result in oxygen deprivation, heart failure, or brain damage.
• Organ or Nerve Damage: A small surgical mistake can lead to irreversible nerve damage, paralysis, or internal bleeding.
• Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to properly monitor patients after surgery can result in severe infections, excessive bleeding, or life-threatening complications.

Causes of Surgical Malpractice

Many surgical mistakes are preventable and caused by negligence. Common reasons include:

• Lack of Preoperative Planning: Surgeons must thoroughly review medical records and confirm all procedural details before an operation.
• Poor Communication Among Medical Teams: Miscommunication between doctors, nurses, and anesthesiologists increases the risk of errors.
• Surgeon Fatigue and Overwork: Long shifts and exhaustion can impair a surgeon’s ability to perform accurately.
• Defective or Unsterilized Equipment: Malfunctioning surgical instruments or unsterilized tools can lead to severe infections and complications.
• Failure to Follow Standard Protocols: Ignoring established surgical guidelines increases the likelihood of malpractice.

Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Orland Hills

Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to seek legal action. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims is two years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Exceptions apply for minors or cases where the injury was not immediately apparent.

Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims

Victims of surgical malpractice in Orland Hills may be entitled to compensation, including:

• Medical Costs: Coverage for hospital stays, additional surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Compensation for lost income due to extended recovery periods or permanent disability.
• Pain & Suffering: Financial recovery for emotional distress, chronic pain, and diminished quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence or reckless medical conduct.
• Wrongful Death Compensation: Families of deceased victims may seek damages for funeral expenses and loss of financial support.

Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in Orland Hills

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Obtain a second opinion and corrective treatment if necessary.
2. Obtain Your Medical Records: Secure copies of surgical reports, imaging scans, and physician notes.
3. Report the Malpractice: File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to document the incident.
4. Consult a Malpractice Attorney: An experienced lawyer can help evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.

Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Orland Hills

Surgical malpractice claims in Orland Hills are filed in Cook County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert medical testimony to prove that a healthcare provider’s actions deviated from the standard of care and caused patient harm.

Local Resources for Victims in Orland Hills

• Illinois State Bar Association – Legal resources and malpractice law updates.
• Cook County Health Department – Assistance in filing complaints and accessing patient advocacy services.
• Orland Hills Medical Support Network – Community-based support groups for surgical malpractice victims.
• Orland Hills Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery resources for surgical malpractice victims.
• Orland Hills Police Department – 16039 94th Ave, Orland Hills, IL 60487 – Assistance in cases involving medical negligence with criminal implications.
• Cook County Sheriff’s Office – 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 – Law enforcement support for malpractice-related investigations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)