Hernia Surgery Complication Lawyer Philadelphia
Hernias can occur from a single accident or from a lifetime of wear. Hernias must be repaired surgically. The two most common types of hernias are umbilical and inguinal. Umbilical hernias happen near the navel. Inguinal hernias are found in the groin region and are the most common. They happen when the abdominal wall weakens, which permits the intestine to slip through the weakened area. Several factors can weaken the wall, including:
- Heavy lifting
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Previous surgery
Over half-a-million hernia surgeries are performed annually in the U.S., according to the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. Complications for the two kinds of hernia surgery vary. The rate of complications for open surgery is 10 percent. The rate for laparoscopic surgery is 13 percent. Complications can range from mild to severe.
Types of Surgery
The type of surgery your doctor will perform depends on the severity and location of the hernia. Laparoscopic surgery is performed with several small incisions and lighted microscopes. Lap surgery lasts longer than open surgery and requires general anesthesia. Because the laparoscopic incisions are smaller, it takes less time for the patient to recuperate. Open surgery hurts more than lap surgery. However, laparoscopic hernia procedures are a higher risk for complications, including a recurrence of the original hernia. Mobility may also be hindered due to the pain.
Complications
Either laparoscopic and open surgery can cause the following complications:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Problems urinating
- Shrinking of the testicles
- Scrotum discoloration
- Drainage from the incision
- Fever
- Nausea
- Pneumonia
- Blood clots
- Scar tissue pain
The majority of complications happen during the postoperative period and do not have long-term effects on the patient. The most serious complications call for advanced treatment. Sometimes the spermatid cord structures are damaged during inguinal surgery, says the Encyclopedia of Surgery. This can make male patients’ testicles turn black and blue and cause them to shrink. The worst complication is when the hernia recurs, which happens in about 3.5 percent of patients who undergo lap surgeries. Some 10 to 15 percent of adult patients who had open surgery will suffer a recurrence. For umbilical surgeries, the recurrence rate is only 1 to 5 percent.
Contact a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Philadelphia
Medical malpractice is a serious form of liability. When patients experience long-term complications, they rack up excessive medical fees for their additional treatment. They can also be laid up and unable to work while they recuperate. If this happens to you, Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys at Rosenbaum & Associates are ready to discuss the details of your case. We can advise you regarding your right to compensation. Our attorneys have many years of experience pursuing compensation for victims of medical malpractice. We’ll help you navigate the complicated legal waters to get you the best settlement possible for your damages.