Most Louisiana residents will likely agree that undergoing any sort of medical procedure can be nerve-wracking. In particular, surgical procedures often cause patients some stress and worry that the outcome may not be ideal and, in the worst case scenario, that their doctors will make mistakes. Unfortunately, this worst fear sometimes comes true.
Such was the case when a man in another state underwent gall bladder surgery and ended up with permanent changes to his lifestyle. He subsequently sued for medical malpractice and was recently awarded $7.4 million. Doctors performed the surgery on the now 38-year-old man in late 2015. Reportedly, during the gall bladder removal procedure, the surgeon placed a surgical clip in an admittedly wrong location. The surgical error caused severe damage to the common hepatic duct.
The plaintiff’s lawyers have said the surgery resulted in serious, life-altering injuries to the patient’s bile duct system. He now has a permanent drain in his chest requiring daily care, and he will have to undergo multiple surgical procedures for the rest of his life. According to the law Firm, the award represents one of the largest verdicts nationwide in a gall bladder removal case.
Surgical procedures are necessary for many people in order to improve quality of life or even to save a life. However, surgeons can make mistakes during the process, sometimes causing a patient to endure significant lifestyle changes. Louisiana residents who feel they have also suffered the effects of medical negligence may wish to consult with a knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney who can inform them of their legal options.
