I believe my nerve damage was caused by negligent administration of an epidural. How can I file a complaint?

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Question:

I recently underwent surgery and was given an epidural in the process. The anesthesiologist had trouble inserting the needle which caused me great discomfort.  Since the surgery, I have suffered noticeable nerve damage which has partially disabled me. I am sure the nerve damage resulted from the botched epidural. How do I bring a complaint against the anesthesiologist?

Answer:

Like any other anesthesia, an epidural is a highly risky procedure, and any number of things might go wrong.

In administering an epidural, healthcare professionals are taught the "Four P's":

  1. Preparation, which includes selecting the proper needle
  2. Position, which for adults usually means lying on one's stomach
  3. Projection
  4. Puncture, where the healthcare professional decides just where to insert the needle

If done correctly, the needle will enter the epidural area just outside the sac encasing the spinal cord. If done incorrectly, the needle can puncture this sac and damage the spinal cord.

Complications during any of these steps can result in the nerve damage you are suffering (which apparently occurred during the puncture procedure), as well as seizures, cardiac arrest and even death. An experienced attorney can investigate your particular case to determine exactly where the malpractice occurred and what the compensatory damages should be.

Talk to a Medical Malpractice Lawyer to get a consultation and advice regarding your options to file a medical malpractice claim.

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