When Knee Replacement Surgery Gets Botched

What To Do After a Botched Knee Replacement Surgery

People who decide to undergo knee replacement surgery do so with the expectation of relief and improved mobility. However, the surgical procedure may not go as planned in some cases. These instances only occur in 7% of surgeries, but when they do happen, it can lead to the patient’s substantial pain and suffering.

Medical Malpractice Claims

When a doctor fails to meet the standard of care expected in their field, resulting in harm to the patient, that can be medical malpractice. Knee replacement surgeries are usually performed for arthroscopic ligament repair or joint replacement. These complex procedures demand precision and expertise. If a surgeon does not follow accepted medical practices and instead causes harm, the victim might have a claim.

What Happens When Your Knee Replacement Surgery Is Botched?

When the knee replacement surgery is botched, patients may experience various complications, including:

• Persistent pain
• Excessive swelling and inflammation
• Limited range of motion
• Surgical site infections
• Instability or weakness in the knee joint
• Nerve damage leading to pain or numbness

If you are in this situation, here are a few steps to take:

Get Medical Attention

In these cases, you will want to prioritize your health and well-being above everything else. If you experience any complications after knee replacement surgery, consult the medical professional immediately. You will want to discuss your concerns before taking any legal action. The surgeon may not be aware of the complications. With an open dialogue, you can delve a little more into the nature of the issue. Some complications may be addressed through additional medical treatment, helping you avoid the need for legal action.

However, the original surgeon may be unwilling to provide adequate treatment for you. In those cases, you may want to find another medical professional. Getting a second opinion can help you understand the extent of the issue and explore possible corrective measures. In any case, you will want to keep track of your symptoms, medical visits and any communication you have with healthcare providers.

If you believe these professionals have violated their duty to care for you, a medical malpractice claim may be one legal option.

Schedule a Legal Consultation

If your communication with the original surgeon fails to lead to a satisfactory resolution, or if the complications are severe, it may be time to seek legal advice. At this time, you should consult with an experienced Allentown personal injury attorney who deals with surgical errors. They can help you evaluate the circumstances surrounding your case. If malpractice occurs, these professionals can guide you on the next steps to take.

If your legal team has determined you have a claim, you must document the evidence. You will want to collect all medical records, surgical notes, imaging studies and any communication with the healthcare professionals. Your attorney will use this information to establish a timeline of events. Along with that, they need to show that there was a deviation from the standard of care.

Expert Witnesses

In medical malpractice cases, expert witnesses play an important role. Your attorney will work with medical professionals to provide expert testimony supporting your claim. Their opinions can establish that the surgeon’s actions deviated from accepted standards.

Negotiation and Settlement

Many medical malpractice cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement. Your attorney will contact the responsible parties. They will present the evidence and advocate for fair compensation during this time. The case may proceed to trial if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached.

Reach Out To an Allentown Personal Injury Attorney

If you have suffered injuries from a botched knee replacement surgery, the personal injury lawyers at Metzger & Kleiner are here to help. To learn more about how we might be able to assist you, call us at 610-435-7400 or fill out our online contact form.