Cardiovascular surgery is an essential component of care for people with conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It is typically necessary when other treatments, such as medications or lifestyle changes, are insufficient to manage cardiovascular diseases effectively. While many people who undergo such procedures enjoy vast improvements in their quality of life and life expectancy, others are not as fortunate, as errors and oversights during the surgical process cause them significant harm. In many instances, such mistakes are the direct result of the surgeon’s carelessness and provide justification for pursuing medical malpractice claims. If you were hurt by cardiovascular surgery malpractice, it is smart to talk to an attorney about what damages you may be able to recover. The skilled Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys of Arfaa Law Group aggressively advocate on behalf of their clients, and if we represent you, we will zealously pursue the best legal outcome possible.
Examples of Cardiovascular Surgery MalpracticeCardiovascular surgeons perform a variety of procedures, including heart valve repair or replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting, congenital heart defect repair, and procedures to treat diseases of the aorta. Such surgeries are often required to restore blood flow, repair damaged or diseased heart tissue, improve heart function, and prevent further complications like heart attacks or heart failure. The decision to undergo cardiovascular surgery is based on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the patient's overall health and medical history, and the expected benefits versus risks associated with the procedure.
Cardiovascular surgeries are highly intricate and require precision and skill. As such, various errors can lead to harm and arguably constitute malpractice. For example, errors, like inaccurately diagnosing a patient, making inappropriate incisions, and failing to monitor vital signs during the procedure, are common. Additionally, inadequate post-operative care, such as failure to recognize and treat complications like infections, blood clots, or heart attacks, can also constitute malpractice. The consequences of cardiovascular surgery malpractice can be severe and often lead to permanent disability or even death.
Claims Arising Out of Cardiovascular Surgery MalpracticePatients who suspect they are victims of such negligence often seek recourse for their losses via medical malpractice claims.
Generally, the harm caused by medical professionals in the context of treatment is the result of carelessness rather than an intent to harm. As such, a plaintiff in a medical malpractice lawsuit usually must prove the elements of negligence to be successful. In Maryland, a plaintiff pursuing a negligence claim against a doctor first has to establish that the defendant owed them a duty of care, which arises from the doctor-patient relationship. This duty requires the defendant to adhere to the accepted standard of care, which is defined as what a competent professional would do in a similar circumstance. The plaintiff must also show that the provider breached this duty by failing to meet the standard of care. Typically, expert testimony is needed to explain the standard of care and to demonstrate the defendant breached the standard. Next, the plaintiff has to prove causation, which means that they must show that the provider's breach directly caused the patient's injury or worsened their condition. Showing a connection between the defendant’s behavior and the plaintiff’s harm generally requires expert testimony as well.
A plaintiff who proves a defendant’s fault may be able to recover compensation for their past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. They may also be granted compensation for their non-economic damages, like suffering, pain, and mental and physical anguish. In some cases, expert testimony is needed to substantiate and quantify damages as well.
Meet With a Trusted Baltimore AttorneyPatients who undergo procedures performed by cardiovascular surgeons expect their health will improve, but sadly, in many instances, their surgeon’s carelessness leads to complications that worsen their condition. If you or a loved one were the victim of cardiovascular surgery malpractice, it is smart to meet with an attorney to evaluate your options. The trusted Baltimore lawyers of Arfaa Law Group can evaluate your case and aid you in fighting to protect your interests. We have an office in Baltimore, and we regularly represent parties injured by medical malpractice in lawsuits throughout the city. You can contact us at 410-889-1850 or through our online form to arrange a meeting.