Michigan Anesthesiology Malpractice Lawyer

Like all medical providers, anesthesiologists owe a duty of care to their patients. When a negligent healthcare provider fails to conform to leading medical standards, they can be held liable for any injuries the patient suffers. 

At the medical malpractice law firm of Sommers Schwartz, we work with patients and their families to hold negligent healthcare providers accountable. Our dedicated attorneys can help you receive the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.

How Anesthesia Works:

Doctors generally administer anesthesia through an IV or inhalable gas. The medication limits the brain’s nerve signals, causing patients to enter a sleep-like state. 

When the patient falls asleep, the anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist may place a breathing tube down the patient’s throat. The tube ensures the patient receives enough oxygen while anesthetized. 

Anesthesia is a generally safe procedure when performed by a skilled provider. However, serious injury can result if an anesthesiologist makes a dosage error or fails to consider unique patient risk factors. 

Common Anesthesia-Related Injuries:

When improperly performed, anesthesia can cause a variety of serious and potentially life-threatening complications, including:

• Brain damage – Most often, anesthesia-related brain damage results from oxygen deprivation to the brain. This can occur if a patient suffers a stroke while under anesthesia or the anesthesiologist negligently places the breathing tube. 
• Respiratory problems – Respiratory problems are widespread in patients with a history of other respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Common forms include lung collapse or injuries caused by incorrect breathing tube placement.
• Dental damage – When anesthesiologists use specific devices or tools to open a patient’s airway, dental injury can result, including dislodged crowns and bridges. 
• Heart problems – Anesthesia places added stress on a patient’s heart. Patients can suffer heart attacks or other long-term heart problems in some cases. Before surgery, anesthesiologists have a duty to ensure the patient is healthy enough to withstand the medication. 

Bringing a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Following an Anesthesia Error:

Medical malpractice claims are extraordinarily complex, as they involve the intersection of complicated legal and medical principles. For this reason, courts require patients to obtain an affidavit of merit signed by a healthcare provider practicing in the same area as the defendant. The affidavit must identify the relevant standard of care and explain why, in the expert’s opinion, the defendant-provider failed to meet that standard. They must also explain how the provider’s negligence caused the patient’s injuries. 

Failure to comply with this requirement may result in the dismissal of the patient’s case. This is one of many reasons that working with a dedicated medical malpractice lawyer can significantly increase the chances of a favorable outcome.

Contact the Anesthesia Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Sommers Schwartz, P.C.

If you or someone you love suffered an injury due to anesthesia, call the attorneys at Sommers Schwartz. Our medical malpractice lawyers have extensive experience handling complex medical claims and can help you make the best decision for yourself and your family. To learn more, call 800-783-0989 or reach us through our online form.