Negligent Use of Robotic Surgery Devices

Robotic surgery is a growing field, offering enhanced precision and minimally invasive techniques that have improved recovery times for patients across various types of surgeries. Despite these advantages, robotic surgery devices require skill, caution, and careful handling, and any negligence in their use can lead to devastating injuries. Unfortunately, errors involving robotic surgery devices are not uncommon and often stem from inadequate training, poor device maintenance, and other forms of negligence. If you or a loved one were harmed by the negligent use of robotic surgery devices, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, and you should confer with an attorney as soon as possible. The seasoned Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys of Arfaa Law Group are dedicated to advocating for patients injured by medical negligence, and if we represent you, we will work tirelessly to pursue the outcome you deserve.

Robotic surgery devices have revolutionized the operating room by allowing surgeons to perform complex procedures with smaller incisions and enhanced precision. However, robotic surgery devices require specialized knowledge and training, and any lack of skill or attention in their use can have severe consequences. The risks associated with robotic surgery devices are compounded by the fact that they are typically used in delicate surgeries, such as heart, urological, and gynecological procedures. If a surgeon lacks proper training or fails to carefully operate the device, a small mistake can cause significant harm to the patient, including severe internal injuries, nerve damage, excessive bleeding, and even death.

Negligence with robotic surgery devices can occur at multiple levels, such as a surgeon’s failure to accurately control the device, a lack of training in using robotic technology, or insufficient maintenance of the device. Errors can also arise from technical malfunctions, such as robotic arms freezing or failing to respond correctly, which could occur if the device is not properly calibrated or maintained. In some cases, hospitals and medical facilities may promote robotic surgery as a preferred option without ensuring that all operators are adequately trained. The negligent use of robotic surgery devices can turn a procedure that was supposed to enhance patient care into a life-altering event, resulting in extended hospital stays, additional surgeries, and substantial emotional distress.

Patients expect doctors to protect their health, which includes exercising skill and caution when using robotic surgery devices. If a doctor fails to do so by using a robotic surgery device in a careless manner, they may be liable for medical malpractice.

To establish a valid medical malpractice claim based on the negligent use of robotic surgery devices, a plaintiff must first demonstrate that the defendant owed them a duty of care. In cases involving robotic surgery, the duty of care requires that the surgeon and medical staff use the device according to accepted standards. A plaintiff will then need to demonstrate that the defendant breached this duty by failing to operate the device correctly or by not maintaining the device as required.

Next, the plaintiff must prove causation, which means showing that the injuries they sustained were a direct result of the defendant’s negligent actions. In other words, the plaintiff must establish that, but for the improper use of the robotic surgery device, they would not have suffered harm. This often involves expert testimony to explain how the healthcare provider’s actions deviated from the standard of care, as well as how this deviation resulted in the plaintiff’s injuries. Lastly, the plaintiff must demonstrate that they suffered actual damages due to the defendant’s errors.

Victims of injuries caused by the negligent use of robotic surgery devices may be entitled to various forms of compensation under Maryland law. These can include both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are quantifiable losses, such as the costs of additional medical treatment, surgeries needed to address complications, and expenses related to rehabilitation. Victims may also be compensated for lost wages if their injuries prevent them from working temporarily or permanently.

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate victims for intangible harm, such as physical pain, suffering, emotional distress, and the reduced quality of life resulting from the injury. Maryland has caps on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases, and these caps are adjusted each year.

Injury caused by the negligent use of robotic surgery devices can result in long-term physical, emotional, and financial burdens. When medical providers fail to uphold the standard of care required for robotic-assisted procedures, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you or a loved one was injured due to negligence involving robotic surgery, you should reach out to an attorney to discuss your options. The knowledgeable Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys of Arfaa Law Group take pride in helping victims of negligent medical care protect their interests, and if you engage our services, we will argue aggressively on your behalf. We have an office in Baltimore, and we regularly represent people in cases in Baltimore and throughout the state of Maryland. To arrange a free conference, please contact our office today by calling 410-889-1850 or by completing our online form.