Laser eye surgery is one of the most important medical advances of our time. While the procedure has helped to correct the vision of countless people, there is potential for injury if the surgery is not done properly. If you were injured or experienced complications due to laser surgery malpractice, you may be able to recover compensation for your harm through a negligence claim. At Arfaa Law Group, our seasoned Baltimore medical malpractice lawyers represent clients who have suffered serious preventable harm.
What is Lasik?Laser eye surgery, also known as LASIK, is corrective eye surgery that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The procedure involves fixing a person’s vision with a laser that reshapes the inner cornea. Specifically, the doctor makes an incision in the cornea so that a small flap of the clear tissue of the eye can be lifted up. Once this takes place, the laser beam reshapes the tissue of the cornea under the flap. If done correctly, the cornea should heal and the patient will no longer need eyeglasses or corrective contact lenses.
Causes of Lasik ErrorsLASIK as well as other types of laser vision correction surgeries have become extremely popular, and the vast majority of patients benefit from these procedures. However, some patients experience permanent vision loss or damage to the eye. This can happen for a number of reasons. During an initial appointment, eye surgeons have a duty to screen patients to make sure that patient is a good candidate for LASIK. Unfortunately, this does not always happen and the result can be devastating for the patient. Surgeons can also make mistakes during the actual procedure. If they are not paying attention or lose focus, even momentarily, the patient’s vision may be permanently altered. Lastly, the surgeon may use the wrong tool to perform a certain part of the procedure and this could lead to irreparable harm.
Laser Surgery MalpracticeAll surgeons, including ophthalmologists, are required to adhere to the medical standard of care when performing laser eye surgery. The standard of care refers to the level of care and caution that a reasonably competent ophthalmologist would provide when performing the same operation on a patient. The standard of care can vary in every situation depending on a number of factors such as the patient’s age and medical history.
In order to establish a medical malpractice case in the state of Maryland, the plaintiff (i.e., the party filing the lawsuit) has the burden of establishing the following elements:
It is important to note that, in some cases, a hospital can be liable for the actions of a negligent ophthalmologist as well. An experienced injury attorney will examine your case to identify any and all potentially liable parties.
Damages for Vision LossAs a victim of laser surgery malpractice, your injuries will likely result in future medical procedures. It would be unfair for you to pay these costs out of your own pocket. Fortunately, Maryland law allows victims of malpractice to recover a variety of damages including, but not limited to medical expenses, lost wages due to missed work, pain and suffering, disability, and any compensation for any other financial setbacks you may have suffered due to the malpractice.
Skilled Medical Malpractice Lawyers Serving BaltimoreNo patient should have to suffer unnecessary harm following laser surgery. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as the result of laser eye surgery, you may be entitled to compensation for your harm. At Arfaa Law Group, our highly skilled Baltimore malpractice attorneys have the resources and knowledge to handle your case. With extensive experience in this area of law, you can rest assured that we can advise you of your legal rights and options. Call us today at 410-889-1850 or contact us online to set up a free consultation.