An angiogram is a medical diagnostic test which uses injectable dye in order to make the arteries visible on x-ray films. The test itself is referred to as an “angiogram.” During the test, an anesthetic is injected into the area where the blood vessels will be accessed. Thereafter, a catheter is inserted into the vessel and dye is injected into the blood vessels. X rays are then taken in order to see the arteries. Angiography is frequently utilized by physicians who are attempting to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of aneurysms, coronary artery disease, cerebral bleeds, peripheral vascular disease, liver tumors, and other medical conditions. In addition, angiograms are used in order to determine whether a patient is a candidate for surgery.
Angiogram Mistakes and Medical Malpractice
- Risks and Dangers of Angiography
- Doctors Liability for Medical Negligence
- Filing a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit
- Notifying the Doctor or Hospital of the Suit
Risks and Dangers Involved
There are various risks involved with angiography. Generally, most of the risks are infrequent and do not occur in the majority of individuals who have an angiogram. However, when malpractice occurs, there can be significant consequences. Some risks include:
- allergic reaction to iodine based dyes
- damage to the blood vessels where the catheter is inserted
- damage to unborn baby due to x ray screening
- brain damage or death due to the use of cerebral angiography
- radiation exposure due to use of x rays
- kidney damage when a certain type of dye is used
- blood clots
- death
Doctors Liability and Negligence
When a physician performs angiography, there is a risk of medical malpractice where there is negligent performance of the angiogram. In addition, the hospital where the test is provided also risks malpractice if there is negligent performance. These cases arise where the physician deviates from the accepted medical standard of practice and harm results to the patient. For example, when performing an angiogram, a physician could damage the carotid artery, which could lead to a subarachnoid bleed which causes a stroke and paralysis. If negligence is proven in such a case, the physician and the hospital may be liable for significant sums based upon the patient’s injuries. Moreover, physician error or failure to act in the performance of an angiogram may also result in medical malpractice.
Filing a Lawsuit
In order to commence a law suit based upon medical malpractice arising out of angiography, one should retain the services of an experienced medical malpractice attorney. In addition, one should research the background of the attorney in order to obtain information indicating the attorney’s experience in angiography malpractice, or related types of medical malpractice cases. The medical malpractice attorney can handle the commencement of the lawsuit on your behalf.
Notifying the Doctor or Hospital of a Lawsuit
While every jurisdiction’s requirements vary, most states require the filing of a summons and complaint against the physician and/or hospital where the angiography was performed in order to commence the medical malpractice action. Some jurisdictions also require a pre-lawsuit certification from an expert which states that there is medical malpractice. A medical malpractice attorney can handle all of these requirements. Furthermore, the medical malpractice attorney’s experience in angiography and how it contributes to a patient’s subsequent damages can result in the recovery of substantial amounts for the patient.
