Complications after a Hysterectomy: Surgery Malpractice?

It might come as a shock to have been told you needed a hysterectomy. Some women react differently to the news that their uterus or womb will need to be removed. However, even with the best counseling given, it does not prepare you for dealing with the complications that can follow a major surgical procedure such as this. To have your womb removed, and then have to deal with your hysterectomy complications can greatly impair the quality of your physical, emotional and mental health.

Reasons For Hysterectomy

There are many reasons why a hysterectomy is recommended for a woman. These various reasons and the decision to have a hysterectomy is ultimately the woman’s choice. First of all, the uterus can be removed in cases uterine cancer. In some situations, the surgeon will try to remove as much of the tumor from the uterus. However, if the cancer continues to spread or it completely disfigures the uterus until there is not much left of normal tissue, a physician may suggest the removal of the uterus to prevent spread to other organs and ultimately save the woman’s life.

Another reason a hysterectomy might be performed is in the cases of very heavy bleeding. Some women have tried every treatment imaginable to decrease the monthly bleeding they have that leaves them very anemic and very weak. If there are no further options to try, the physician can recommend removal of the uterus to help the woman feel normal again.

The uterus has a rich blood supply, but if this blood supply is decreased or cut off, then the tissue can die. When this happens, the womb is at risk for gangrene or infection. The woman can be told that removal is her best option.

Complications of Hysterectomy

The hysterectomy complications can be similar to the complications of any major surgery. The woman may suffer hemorrhage, infections, extreme pain, anemia, obstructed bowels, a blood clot, or damage to the urinary system. Some of these complications can be quickly treated while others such as an obstructed bowel might be life-threatening.

Getting Legal Help

It will be important to seek the counsel of an attorney as soon as possible if you have suffered from complications associated with a hysterectomy. These complications may have been a result of surgery malpractice, and your attorney will be able to guide you to the next step.