Manhattan Medical Malpractice Attorney: What Doctors Have the Highe...

Details: Created: 19 April 2024

Medical malpractice is a serious concern in the healthcare industry in Manhattan, adversely impacting the lives of patients and their families. A research report by Medscape sheds light on the specialties most susceptible to malpractice lawsuits. Based on this "Physicians and Malpractice Report" published on October 26^th, 2023, here is an in-depth analysis of the 22 physician specialties and their frequencies at which they face malpractice lawsuits.

Choose an experienced medical malpractice lawyer in Manhattan, New York who can find evidence to prove liability of the negligent doctors and hospitals, and fight hard to maximize your financial compensation.

General Surgeons: 90% Face Medical Malpractice Claims

General surgeons hold a unique position in the medical field, serving as the frontline for a wide range of surgical procedures. Their expertise spans from emergency surgeries to routine operations, making them integral to the healthcare system. Stemming from this, this broad scope of practice also exposes them to a higher risk of medical malpractice lawsuits. According to the Medscape report, a staggering 90% of general surgeons report being either a sole or co-defendant in a malpractice lawsuit at some point in their careers.

Factors Contributing to High Malpractice Rates among General Surgeons

Negligence in Complex Procedures: General surgeons often perform intricate and high-risk surgeries, such as appendectomies, gallbladder removals, and hernia repairs. The complexity of these procedures increases the likelihood of complications, which can lead to malpractice claims if negligence is involved.

Postoperative Complications: The postoperative period is crucial for patient recovery. Complications arising during this phase, such as infections, hemorrhage, or organ failure, can be attributed to the surgeon's negligence and may result in malpractice claims.

Inadequate Preoperative Assessment: Failure to conduct a thorough preoperative assessment, which includes evaluating the patient's medical history, current health status, and potential risks, can result in surgical complications and subsequent malpractice claims.

Lack of Informed Consent: Patients must be adequately informed about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a surgical procedure before giving their consent. Failure to obtain proper informed consent can result in legal repercussions.

Surgical Errors: Mistakes during surgery, such as wrong-site surgery, leaving surgical instruments inside the patient, or damaging nearby organs, are significant factors contributing to malpractice claims against general surgeons.

Delayed Diagnosis or Treatment: General surgeons are often involved in diagnosing and treating conditions like appendicitis, gallstones, and hernias. Delayed diagnosis or treatment can lead to worsening of the patient's condition and potential legal actions.

Seasoned Manhattan medical malpractice lawyers can establish liability of the negligent surgeons and recover maximum damages for the victims in New York.

OB-GYN: 85% Face Medical Malpractice Claims

OB-GYNs, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, play a crucial role in women's reproductive health, from prenatal care to childbirth and beyond. Despite the invaluable services they provide, they face a substantial risk of medical malpractice lawsuits. According to Medscape's report, 85% of OB-GYNs have faced a malpractice lawsuit at some point in their careers.

Factors Contributing to High Malpractice Rates among OB-GYNs

Cerebral Palsy and Brachial Plexus Injuries: Failure to anticipate or respond to fetal distress during childbirth can lead to birth injuries such as cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries. Inadequate monitoring, delayed cesarean sections, or improper use of delivery instruments like forceps or vacuum extractors can result in lifelong disabilities for the child and subsequent malpractice claims.

Failure to Diagnose or Misdiagnosis: Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of ectopic pregnancies can lead to life-threatening complications for the mother, such as ruptured fallopian tubes and internal bleeding. Similarly, failure to detect early signs of cervical cancer during routine screenings can lead to delayed treatment and worsened prognosis for the patient.

Surgical Errors: Inadequate surgical techniques or postoperative care can lead to complications such as organ damage, infection, or excessive bleeding. Improper performance of a cesarean section can result in injuries to the mother or baby, including lacerations, hemorrhage, or anesthesia-related complications.

Informed Consent Issues: Failure to provide patients with comprehensive information about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a procedure, especially in high-risk pregnancies or surgeries, can lead to legal repercussions.

Postoperative Complications: Complications arising from gynecological surgeries, such as hysterectomies, myomectomies, or tubal ligations, can result in infections, hemorrhage, or organ damage if not managed appropriately.

Negligent Prenatal Care: Inadequate prenatal care, including failure to diagnose or manage conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or fetal growth restriction, can result in adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby, leading to malpractice claims.

Patient Abandonment or Negligent Follow-Up: Failure to provide appropriate follow-up care after surgical procedures or childbirth can lead to complications going unnoticed and worsening over time, resulting in legal actions against the OB-GYN.

A top-rated medical malpractice attorney in Manhattan, NY can fight for your rights and hold the negligent doctors and hospitals liable for maximum damages.

Orthopedics: 82% Face Medical Malpractice Claims

Orthopedic surgeons specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. Their practice often involves intricate surgical procedures and interventions to restore function and alleviate pain. According to the Medscape report, 82% of orthopedic surgeons have faced a malpractice lawsuit at some point in their careers.

Factors Contributing to High Malpractice Rates among Orthopedics

Wrong-Site Surgery: Operating on the wrong limb or joint is a severe and preventable error that can lead to further complications and the need for additional surgeries.

Nerve Damage: Injuries to adjacent nerves during surgical procedures, such as joint replacements or spinal surgeries, can result in chronic pain, numbness, or paralysis.

Inadequate Fixation or Hardware Failure: Improper placement of screws, plates, or other fixation devices can lead to joint instability, malalignment, and the need for revision surgeries.

Infections: Orthopedic surgeries, particularly joint replacements and open reductions, carry a risk of postoperative infections. Failure to promptly diagnose and treat these infections can lead to sepsis or the need for additional surgeries.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism: Inadequate prophylaxis or monitoring for DVT post-surgery can result in life-threatening complications.

Fracture Mismanagement: Failure to diagnose or properly manage fractures, especially in high-energy traumas, can result in malunion, nonunion, or avascular necrosis.

Tumor Misdiagnosis: Failure to timely diagnose or treat musculoskeletal tumors can result in the spread of cancer, worsened prognosis, and potential legal actions.

Negligent Non-Surgical Management: Inadequate or improper non-surgical treatments, such as casting, bracing, or physical therapy, can exacerbate the patient's condition, leading to complications and potential legal actions.

Improper Referrals and Follow-up: Failure to refer patients to the appropriate specialists or provide adequate follow-up care after surgical procedures can lead to worsened outcomes and potential legal actions.

If you have suffered injuries due to an orthopedic surgeon’s negligence, hire proven and capable medical malpractice lawyers Manhattan, New York to protect your right to compensation.

Plastic Surgery: 73% Face Medical Malpractice Claims

Plastic surgeons specialize in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appearance of patients. The demand for cosmetic procedures has surged over the years, leading to an increase in the number of plastic surgery malpractice claims. According to Medscape's report, 73% of plastic surgeons have faced a malpractice lawsuit at some point in their careers.

Factors Contributing to High Malpractice Rates among Plastic Surgeons

Botched Surgeries: Inadequate surgical techniques or improper procedures can lead to disfigurement, asymmetry, or other undesirable outcomes, requiring corrective surgeries.

Anesthesia Errors: Administering incorrect dosages of anesthesia or failing to monitor the patient's vital signs during surgery can result in serious complications, including brain damage or death.

Failure to Disclose Risks: Patients must be informed of all potential risks, complications, and side effects associated with cosmetic procedures. Failure to do so can result in legal repercussions.

Misleading Expectations: Providing patients with unrealistic expectations or outcomes that are unattainable can lead to dissatisfaction and potential legal actions.

Infections and Wound Healing Issues: Improper postoperative care or failure to provide appropriate wound care instructions can result in infections, delayed wound healing, and potential scarring.

Hematoma and Seroma Formation: Inadequate drainage or monitoring post-surgery can lead to the accumulation of blood or fluid, requiring additional surgical interventions.

Unlicensed Practitioners or Non-Certified Surgeons: Allowing unlicensed practitioners or non-certified surgeons to perform cosmetic procedures can result in substandard care and potential legal actions against the supervising plastic surgeon.

Negligent Non-Surgical Procedures: Inadequate or improper administration of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as injectables (Botox, fillers), laser treatments, or chemical peels, can lead to adverse reactions, scarring, or disfigurement.

Negligent Pre-op Care: Failure to conduct thorough preoperative assessments, including medical history evaluations, medication reviews, and diagnostic tests, can lead to complications during surgery and potential legal actions.

Lack of Follow-up and Aftercare: Failure to provide appropriate follow-up care, monitoring, and management of postoperative complications can result in worsened outcomes and potential legal actions against the plastic surgeon.

If you or someone you love has been injured due to the carelessness of a plastic surgeon, be prepared to consult with a skilled Manhattan, NY medical negligence attorney as soon as possible.

Otolaryngology, Radiology, and Urology: 72% Face Medical Malpractice Claims

Otolaryngologists, radiologists, and urologists play vital roles in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and urinary system. While these specialties might not be as commonly associated with malpractice claims as some others, they still face significant risks. According to the Medscape report, the malpractice rates for these specialties are as follows: Otolaryngology (72%), Radiology (72%), and Urology (72%).

Factors Contributing to High Malpractice Rates

Head or Neck Nerve Damage: During procedures involving the head and neck, such as tonsillectomies or thyroidectomies, injuries to adjacent nerves can occur, leading to chronic pain, numbness, or paralysis.

Inadequate Procedure Performance: Errors in surgical techniques or inadequate removal of masses or tumors can result in the recurrence of conditions and the need for revision surgeries.

Missed Tumors or Cancers: Failure to diagnose or timely treat head and neck cancers can lead to the spread of the disease and worsened prognosis.

Incorrect Treatment Plans: Misdiagnosing conditions like sinusitis or ear infections can result in unnecessary treatments or surgeries.

Misinterpretation of Imaging Studies: Failure to identify abnormalities, such as tumors, fractures, or infections, on x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can lead to delayed treatment and worsened outcomes. Misinterpreting imaging studies can lead to incorrect diagnoses and unnecessary medical interventions.

Failure to Communicate Findings: Radiologists must effectively communicate their findings to referring physicians. Failure to do so can result in delayed or incorrect treatments.

Substandard Imaging: Using outdated equipment or techniques can lead to poor image quality, making it difficult to accurately diagnose medical conditions.

Urological Nerve Damage: Injuries to adjacent nerves during surgeries, such as prostatectomies or kidney stone removals, can result in chronic pain, urinary incontinence, or sexual dysfunction.

Inadequate Procedure Performance: Errors in surgical techniques or incomplete removal of tumors or stones can lead to the recurrence of conditions and the need for revision surgeries.

Missed Cancers or Infections: Failure to diagnose or timely treat bladder, kidney, or prostate cancers can lead to the spread of the disease and worsened prognosis.

Incorrect Treatment Plans: Misdiagnosing conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney stones can result in unnecessary treatments or surgeries.

Dedicated med mal lawyers in Manhattan, New York can pursue a malpractice lawsuit on your behalf and recover the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Other Specialties: High Rates of Medical Malpractice Continue in Manhattan

Medical negligence can occur in any medical specialty, leading to potential harm to patients and subsequent malpractice lawsuits. According to Medscape's 2023 research report, various specialties face significant risks of malpractice lawsuits.

Emergency Medicine (71%)

Diagnostic Errors: Failure to promptly and accurately diagnose life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, or sepsis can lead to worsened patient outcomes and potential fatalities.
Treatment Errors: Administering incorrect medication or dosages, or performing incorrect procedures in high-stress emergency situations can lead to severe harm or death.

Communication Errors: Inadequate communication between emergency medical staff can result in delayed or inappropriate treatments, exacerbating patient conditions.

Critical Care (66%)

Monitoring Errors: Failure to adequately monitor critically ill patients can result in missed deterioration signs, leading to delayed interventions and worsened outcomes.

Poor Infection Control: Inadequate infection control practices can result in healthcare-associated infections, leading to prolonged hospital stays and increased morbidity and mortality.

Treatment Delays or Errors: Delays in providing necessary treatments or errors in managing complex medical conditions can lead to irreversible harm or death.

Cardiology (64%)

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to diagnose or timely treat conditions like myocardial infarctions (heart attacks), arrhythmias, or congestive heart failure can result in fatal consequences.

Surgical or Procedural Errors: Errors during cardiac catheterizations, stent placements, or other cardiac procedures can lead to severe complications, including heart damage or stroke.

Medication Errors: Prescribing incorrect cardiac medications or dosages can result in adverse drug reactions, exacerbating cardiac conditions. Talk to a knowledgeable medical negligence lawyer in Manhattan, New York to know your legal options.

Gastroenterology (64%)

Wrong Diagnosis: Failure to diagnose gastrointestinal conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or gastrointestinal bleeding can lead to advanced disease stages and worsened prognoses.

Endoscopic Procedure Errors: Injuries caused during colonoscopies, endoscopies, or other gastrointestinal procedures due to negligence or incompetence can result in perforations, bleeding, or infections.

Medication Errors: Inappropriate prescribing of medications for gastrointestinal conditions or interactions with other medications can lead to adverse effects or treatment failures.

Neurology (59%)

Failure to Diagnose: Failure to diagnose or timely treat neurological conditions such as strokes, seizures, or multiple sclerosis can lead to irreversible neurological damage or death.

Treatment Errors: Administering incorrect medications or dosages for neurological conditions can result in exacerbation of symptoms, complications, or new neurological deficits.

Failure to Monitor: Inadequate monitoring of patients on certain neurological medications or after procedures can lead to severe complications, including respiratory depression or seizures.

Anesthesiology (57%)

Medication Errors: Administering incorrect anesthesia medications or dosages can result in anesthesia awareness, respiratory depression, or other life-threatening complications.

Inadequate Monitoring: Failure to continuously monitor patients' vital signs during anesthesia can lead to complications, including hypoxia, hypotension, or cardiac arrest.

Airway Management Errors: Inadequate airway management or intubation errors can result in airway obstructions, hypoxia, or aspiration. Choose leading Manhattan, NYC medical malpractice attorneys for legal representation.

Infectious Diseases (50%)

Failure to diagnose or timely treat infectious diseases such as sepsis, meningitis, or pneumonia can lead to rapid disease progression and increased morbidity and mortality.

Inappropriate Treatment: Prescribing incorrect antimicrobial therapies or failing to adjust treatments based on microbial susceptibilities can result in treatment failures, prolonged illnesses, or antibiotic resistance.

Poor Infection Control: Inadequate infection control measures can lead to healthcare-associated infections, including outbreaks within healthcare settings.

Ophthalmology (49%)

Failure to diagnose or timely treat eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or retinal detachments can lead to irreversible vision loss.

Surgical Errors: Errors during eye surgeries, such as cataract removals or LASIK procedures, can result in vision impairments or blindness. Get an experienced medical malpractice lawyer in Manhattan, NYC on your side.

Inadequate Informed Consent: Failure to properly inform patients about the risks and potential complications of eye surgeries or treatments can result in legal repercussions.

Oncology (47%)

Wrong or Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to diagnose or timely treat cancers can lead to advanced disease stages, decreased treatment options, and worsened prognoses.

Treatment Errors: Administering incorrect chemotherapy regimens or dosages can result in severe side effects, treatment failures, or compromised patient outcomes.

Inadequate Follow-up: Failure to adequately monitor cancer patients' responses to treatments or to provide timely follow-up care can lead to disease progression or recurrence.

Internal Medicine (46%)

Failure to diagnose or timely treat conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or chronic kidney disease can lead to severe complications, including organ damage or failure.

Medication Errors: Inappropriate prescribing of medications or failure to monitor for potential drug interactions or side effects can result in adverse drug reactions or treatment failures.

Inadequate Monitoring: Failure to monitor chronic medical conditions or to adjust treatment plans based on patients' responses can lead to exacerbation of conditions or hospitalizations.

Family Medicine (45%)

Failure to diagnose or timely treat common conditions seen in family medicine, such as diabetes, hypertension, or infections, can lead to severe complications or worsened outcomes.

Inappropriate Referrals: Referring patients to inappropriate specialists or delaying necessary referrals can result in delayed diagnoses, exacerbation of conditions, or missed treatment opportunities.

Medication Errors: Prescribing incorrect medications or dosages, or failing to monitor for potential drug interactions or side effects, can lead to adverse drug reactions or treatment failures.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (45%)

Treatment Errors: Administering incorrect treatment modalities or rehabilitation plans can result in exacerbation of injuries, delayed recoveries, or new physical impairments.

Inadequate Monitoring: Failure to adequately monitor patients' progress or to adjust rehabilitation plans based on patients' responses can lead to prolonged disabilities or suboptimal functional outcomes.

Inadequate Informed Consent: Failure to properly inform patients about the risks and potential complications associated with physical medicine and rehabilitation treatments can result in legal repercussions.

Pathology (44%)

Misreading or misinterpreting pathological specimens can lead to incorrect diagnoses, delayed treatments, or missed diagnoses of cancers or other diseases.

Communication Errors: Inadequate communication of critical or urgent test results to treating physicians can result in delayed or inappropriate patient management.

Quality Control Issues: Inadequate quality control measures in pathology laboratories can lead to specimen mix-ups, mislabeling, or contamination, compromising patient care and safety.

Pediatrics (43%)

Failure to diagnose or timely treat pediatric conditions such as meningitis, appendicitis, or congenital heart defects can lead to severe complications or death.

Medication Errors: Prescribing incorrect medications or dosages for pediatric patients can result in adverse drug reactions, exacerbation of conditions, or compromised patient outcomes.

Inadequate Monitoring: Failure to adequately monitor pediatric patients' responses to treatments or to provide timely follow-up care can lead to disease progression, complications, or hospitalizations.

Psychiatry (30%)

Failure to diagnose or timely treat psychiatric conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia can lead to worsened mental health outcomes, including suicide.

Inappropriate Treatment: Prescribing incorrect psychiatric medications or dosages can result in severe side effects, treatment failures, or worsened mental health conditions.

Failure to Monitor: Inadequate monitoring of psychiatric patients on certain medications or during treatment can lead to severe complications, including exacerbation of symptoms or adverse drug reactions.

The Leading Medical Malpractice Law Firm in Manhattan is Ready to Represent You

Medical negligence can occur across various medical specialties, leading to potential harm to patients and subsequent malpractice lawsuits. Healthcare professionals have a legal obligation to maintain high standards of care, continuously update their knowledge and skills, and prioritize patient safety to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence in Manhattan, don't be a silent victim. At Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff, LLP, we are Manhattan's leading medical malpractice attorneys with a proven track record of holding negligent medical professionals accountable. Our aggressive and relentless approach ensures that we fight tooth and nail for the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

Don't let profit-driven hospitals and careless doctors get away with their negligence. We are ready to fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your injuries and losses. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 212-344-1000 or contact us online.