Surgical Malpractice Lawyer in Palos Hills, IL

Surgical procedures require accuracy and professionalism, yet medical mistakes still occur. Patients trust doctors and hospitals to perform surgeries safely, but negligence can result in severe complications, long-term injuries, or even wrongful death. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a surgical error in Palos Hills, IL, Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to fight for justice and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Lawyer?

• Proven Success in Surgical Malpractice Cases: Our legal team has successfully handled numerous malpractice cases in Palos Hills and throughout Illinois.
• Familiarity with Local Hospitals: We understand medical procedures at Palos Health – 12251 S 80th Ave, Palos Heights, IL 60463, and Advocate Christ Medical Center – 4440 W 95th St, Oak Lawn, IL 60453.
• No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency 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 Palos Hills

Surgical errors can result in serious health complications. Some common surgical mistakes include:

• Wrong-Site or Wrong-Patient Surgery: Performing surgery on the wrong body part or an entirely different patient due to identification errors.
• Retained Surgical Instruments: Leaving tools, sponges, or medical equipment inside a patient, leading to infections and additional surgeries.
• Anesthesia Errors: Administering incorrect anesthesia dosages can result in brain damage, respiratory failure, or intraoperative awareness.
• Organ or Nerve Damage: Even a small mistake can cause irreversible nerve damage, paralysis, or internal bleeding.
• Post-Surgical Negligence: Failing to monitor patients after surgery can result in undetected infections, internal bleeding, or fatal complications.

Causes of Surgical Malpractice

Surgical malpractice is often preventable and results from negligence. Common causes include:

• Inadequate Preoperative Planning: Medical teams must properly review patient records and confirm procedural details before surgery.
• Communication Failures: Poor coordination between surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists increases the risk of errors.
• Fatigue and Overwork: Surgeons working long hours under stressful conditions are more likely to make preventable mistakes.
• Defective Medical Equipment: Malfunctioning or improperly maintained surgical tools can result in serious patient harm.
• Failure to Follow Standard Protocols: Ignoring established medical guidelines increases the likelihood of malpractice.

Legal Rights of Surgical Malpractice Victims in Palos Hills

Illinois law allows victims of surgical malpractice to pursue legal action against negligent medical professionals. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims in Illinois is two years from the date of the injury or its discovery. Exceptions exist for minors and cases involving delayed injury recognition.

Compensation for Surgical Malpractice Victims

If you have suffered harm due to surgical malpractice, you may be eligible to recover damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, corrective surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Compensation for time missed at work and any permanent disabilities affecting employment.
• Pain & Suffering: Financial recovery for emotional trauma, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of extreme negligence or reckless medical misconduct.
• Wrongful Death Benefits: Families of deceased victims may seek damages for funeral costs and loss of financial support.

Steps to Take After a Surgical Malpractice Incident in Palos Hills

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Get evaluated by another healthcare professional to prevent further harm and assess your condition.
2. Request Your Medical Records: Obtain all surgical reports, test results, and physician notes as evidence for your claim.
3. Report the Malpractice: File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Public Health to document the incident.
4. Consult a Malpractice Attorney: A skilled lawyer can analyze your case and determine the best course of legal action.

Filing a Surgical Malpractice Lawsuit in Palos Hills

Surgical malpractice lawsuits in Palos Hills are processed through Cook County Circuit Court. Illinois law requires expert medical testimony to establish that a healthcare provider deviated from the accepted standard of care and directly caused harm to the patient.

Local Resources for Victims in Palos Hills

• Illinois State Bar Association – Legal support and malpractice law guidance.
• Cook County Health Department – Assistance with filing complaints and accessing patient advocacy services.
• Palos Hills Medical Support Network – Support groups for individuals affected by medical negligence.
• Palos Hills Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation – Recovery services for patients affected by surgical errors.
• Palos Hills Police Department – 8555 W 103rd St, Palos Hills, IL 60465 – 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)