Foreign Object Left in Body After Surgery: Potential Complications

While modern surgical techniques and equipment have greatly improved the safety and effectiveness of surgery, complications can still occur. One potential complication is the accidental retention of a foreign object in the body after surgery. This can lead to a variety of complications for the victim, including pain, infection, and further surgery.

What are some of the complications that a victim might face if a foreign object is left in their body after surgery? Here are a few examples:

Pain: Depending on the size and location of the foreign object, it can cause pain for the victim. The object may press on surrounding tissues or organs, causing discomfort or even severe pain.
Infection: If the foreign object is left in the body for an extended period of time, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other infectious agents. This can lead to an infection in the surrounding tissues or organs, which can be serious and even life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Further surgery: In order to remove the foreign object and address any complications it has caused, the victim may need to undergo further surgery. This can be both physically and emotionally taxing for the victim, and can also increase the risk of additional complications and longer recovery times.
Emotional and psychological impact: Discovering that a foreign object has been left in the body after surgery can be a shocking and distressing experience for the victim. It can lead to feelings of anger, frustration, and betrayal, and may even cause trust issues with medical professionals.

So what can be done if a foreign object is left in the body after surgery? First, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The sooner the object is discovered and removed, the less likely it is to cause complications. Your medical team will work with you to develop a plan to remove the object and address any complications it has caused.

It’s also important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the hospital or the state medical board. This can help to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

In some cases, the victim may be able to seek compensation for their injuries and damages through a medical malpractice lawsuit. This can help to cover the cost of further medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses related to the incident. However, it’s important to note that medical malpractice cases can be complex and may require the help of a skilled attorney.

In conclusion, a foreign object left in the body after surgery can lead to a variety of complications for the victim, including pain, infection, further surgery, and emotional and psychological impact. If you or a loved one has experienced this complication, it’s important to seek medical attention and consider your options for seeking compensation.

At Brown Moore & Associates, PLLC, our Charlotte, North Carolina medical malpractice attorneys are on hand to help you seek the compensation for which you may be eligible in these circumstances. To learn more about what we can do for you, contact us online or call us at 704-335-1500.