Colon polyps are raised or flat growths on the surface of your large intestine, or colon. Polyps can either be non-cancerous or cancerous. Either way the procedure done to check for them can also be used to remove them, this is called a colonoscopy.
How the Procedure is done
When undergoing a colonoscopy, a patient is sedated while a thin flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum. This camera reflects the images on a T.V. screen so the doctor can detect any present polyps. If polyps are found they are removed with a wire forceps attached to the tube and by cauterizing the base with an electric current.
Colonoscopies are relatively mild procedures that are completed on an out patient basis. Due to the lack of nerves in the bowel and patients usually back to normal the next day.
Risks
Risks associated with this procedure are relatively uncommon. Possible risks include:
- Bleeding from the removal site and
- Tears in the wall of the colon
- Adverse reactions to the sedation medication
- Severe bowel infections
Opportunity for Negligence and Injury
Negligence in performing colonoscopies is pretty rare. However it can occur where a patient exhibits symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, severe pain, and severe weight loss, and is misdiagnosed by the doctor that completed the procedure.
Medical Negligence and Malpractice Suits
The main cause of action for this procedure is suit for failure to diagnose and treat post-operative complications. Doctors can also sued for failure to properly perform the procedure, as well as failure to diagnose and treat infection after the surgery is completed.
Damages must always be proven to be a reasonable result of the injury that the patient suffers. Those available in the case of successful suit include:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental suffering and emotional distress
- Loss of time/earnings and impairment of earning capacity
- Medical expenses
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Injury related expenses, and
- Loss of consortium.
Getting Legal Help
In the event that you feel that you are a victim of medical malpractice, seeking the advice of an attorney is absolutely imperative. Only a licensed attorney in your area can advise you of your rights and ensure that your claim is protected. Due to highly specialized area of Medical Malpractice ensure that you find and select an attorney that routinely practices in this field.
