Be aware of the complications of laparoscopic surgery, such as problems with the surgical mesh and surgical tacks.

Laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive technique, gives the patient a quicker recovery, less post-operative pain, and fewer incidence of infection. However, errors do occur. If you have recently undergone a laparoscopic procedure and you have experienced complications, consult with a St. Louis medical malpractice attorney immediately.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

The original intent of laparoscopic surgery was to simplify gall bladder operations and certain gynecological procedures. As the technology developed, it became common in many other types of surgeries, including hernia repair. When repairing a hernia, a surgeon no longer needs to repair the tear with stitches. Instead, the surgeon uses a specially designed mesh with surgical tacks to complete the procedure.

Case Study - Misplaced Surgical Tack

Unfortunately, the use of that mesh has been the cause of thousands of reported complications. In Missouri, a 50-year old patient nearly lost her life. The limited view of the surgical field that the laparoscopy equipment provided caused the surgeon to misplace one of the tacks. As a result, the surgical tack punctured the sac lining of the heart, causing the patient's condition to worsen rapidly and necessitated a multiple number of surgeries to repair the heart and the hernia. After filing a claim against the surgeon, the case was settled for $450,000.

This is a common cause of complications of laparoscopic surgery - misplacement of devices due to a limited view of the anatomy. A surgeon who is not 100 percent sure of the anatomy during the procedure has an obligation to discontinue and either open the surgical field or ask for the opinion of another qualified surgeon.

Protecting Yourself From Medical Malpractice

Many medical professionals agree that laparoscopic surgery is a better option for most surgeries, especially due to the decreased risk of exposure to infection. There is also less scarring involved and a shorter recovery time. If you are scheduled for a laparoscopic surgery, review the procedure in detail with the surgeon and discuss your after care instructions thoroughly, especially any warning signs to look for.

If you have had complications after laparoscopic surgery because of the the surgical mesh or one of the surgical tacks coming undone, speak with a St. Louis medical malpractice attorney about the possibility of medical negligence. You may be entitled to compensation for expenses and pain and suffering. Call Zevan and Davidson Law Firm, LLC at (314) 588-7200 for a free case evaluation.