You’ve been dealing with a health issue for some time now. You’ve tried different medications and treatments, but nothing has had the desired effect. Your medical team has discussed your options with you, and they’ve decided that surgery is in your best interests.
The surgery itself goes smoothly. However, during your recovery, you have suffered a nasty infection. How are surgical infections caused? What are the more common symptoms and are there any legal options open to you?
Endogenous infections
Frequently, infections occur when a surgical wound becomes contaminated by microorganisms on the person’s skin or from bacteria emanating from an organ that has been opened. With prompt treatment, these infections can be nullified, with the patient making a full recovery. Nonetheless, if such conditions are not identified quickly, they have the potential to be life-threatening.
Infections from external factors
There is also a risk of infection being spread from the external environment. If the theater or recovery rooms have not been adequately cleaned, this increases the risk of bacteria spreading. Additionally, surgical tools can contain dangerous microorganisms when they have not been sufficiently sterilized.
Symptoms of infection
There are various signs of an infection. Nonetheless, some of the more common symptoms include swelling around the surgical site, redness, unusual discharge from the wound and high body temperatures. If you suspect that your wound has become infected, then it is pivotal to seek treatment immediately.
Your legal options
All surgeries come with risks and sometimes nobody is to blame for infections. However, if your medical team or institution has contributed to your illness, they should be held to account. When you go for surgery, you are essentially placing your life in the hands of medical staff. They should treat you accordingly and not display negligence while you are under their supervision.
