Experiencing a Damaged Nerve by a Surgeon

Every surgical procedure is associated with its own set of risks, more so when anesthesia is used. Nerve damage caused by a surgical miscalculation is one of the biggest risks. A surgery that is negligently performed can sometimes result in nerve damage, both temporary and permanent. This could eventually lead to a medical malpractice lawsuit. People who suffer from nerve injury can exhibit a variety of symptoms such as:

• Temporary or permanent loss of feeling or sensation
• Paralysis
• Loss of motor function
• Seizures
• Deformity and scarring

Common Causes of Nerve Damage

Some of the most common causes of nerve damage are the negligent use of surgical tools and the incorrect administration of anesthesia. Other causes may be improper patient positioning which might result in too much pressure being put on a nerve for a long period of time, improper use of surgical tourniquets, and improper application of bandages, devices, or surgical retractors. Failure to diagnose certain degenerative conditions is yet another cause for nerve damage. Nerve damage may be permanent or temporary, depending on several factors.

Nerve Damage Related to Anesthesia

Serious nerve injury and damage may be caused by nerve blocks used to manage local anesthesia or pain, when administered incorrectly. Blood flow to the brain, central nervous system, and specific nerves may be prevented when a mistake of this magnitude occurs. These medical errors occur commonly during childbirth and may be the cause of some permanent, life-changing disabilities.

Surgery Resulting in Lacerated or Severed Nerves

Irreversible and catastrophic injuries can also be caused when surgical errors result in the severing, cutting or burning of a nerve. Surgeons often come in close contact with exposed nerves when they are performing an operation. Even the slightest error on their part could lead to nerve injury. There are certain surgical instruments that are used in an operation which may come in contact with an exposed nerve and cause it to become inflamed.

Nerve Injury and Medical Malpractice Lawsuits

To establish liability in a nerve injury case can be a challenging matter, as is the case with most medical malpractice cases. The injured party needs to be able to prove that the physician or surgeon acted in a negligent manner which deviated from the minimum acceptable standard, and thereby caused the injury.

In addition to that, the patient must be able to prove that the negligence of the surgeon caused them to pay high medical bills and caused harm such as pain and suffering. When it comes to nerve injury, the damage doesn't need to be severe. If the discomfort is mild and goes away in a few days' time, then it is unlikely that a large amount will be awarded for damages. However, if the nerve injury is more serious, which leaves the patient permanently damaged or harmed, it is possible that a large amount of compensation is awarded.

To attain the best possible settlement from your medical malpractice claim it is important that you hire the services of a qualified and experienced lawyer. They will know which direction to turn.