Amputation: Losing A Limb Is Traumatic For The Victim And Their Family

The individual who lost the limb must adjust his or her entire life and learn how to perform some of the most basic functions all over again. Often, home accommodations must be made in order for the victim of the amputation to move around and access certain parts of the home. When an amputation is the result of medical malpractice, it is even more devastating because the loss of the limb was preventable. Although nothing can bring the limb back, victims can file a personal injury claim to recover all the losses associated with the injury. An experienced lawyer can help individuals file these claims and secure the full amount of damages they deserve.

Types Of Amputation Associated With Medical Malpractice

When people think of amputations due to medical malpractice, they often first think of when the wrong body part is surgically amputated. Although this is a much more common type of amputation than many people think, amputations can occur from medical malpractice in a number of other ways, as well. These include:

• Improperly applied casts that cause compartment syndrome and result in damage to a limb
• A failure to diagnose and treat an infection, which causes it to become worse
• Improper care for a wound, resulting in an infection that causes damage to the limb
• Complications that arise during surgery and which the medical professional does not respond to in an appropriate manner or within the necessary time

Some individuals are at greater risk for these types of amputations than others. Individuals suffering from diabetes, heart disease or other preexisting conditions are more susceptible to complications that lead to amputations. Doctors must take these preexisting conditions into account when caring for their patients, and when they do not, it could constitute medical malpractice. If you are unsure whether your amputation was a result of medical malpractice, call the Willoughby Law Firm, Inc..

The Cost Of An Amputation

Amputations are not only devastating, but they are also costly. The initial hospital stay can take several weeks or even months, and the individual must then undergo extensive rehabilitative treatment. Amputees often need prosthetics in order to function. These are extremely expensive and must be replaced periodically. Renovations to make a home more accessible are also extremely expensive.

In addition to these expenses, victims are often unable to go to work and may never work again due to their injury. During this time, victims also incur costly medical bills and likely will for several years after the injury. Unfortunately, insurance does not always cover these costs, which is why so many people choose to reach out to an attorney and file a medical malpractice claim to recover their damages.

Our Experienced Team Can Help

At Willoughby Law Firm, Inc., Markus Willoughby has extensive experience in medical malpractice cases. If you have been the victim of an amputation, call us today at 415-870-2778 or contact us online to arrange a free case evaluation.