New York Anesthesia Malpractice Attorney
Anesthesia is an integral part of many surgical procedures. However, if it is not administered correctly, it can cause severe and permanent injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured due to an anesthesia mistake, you need to speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. At our firm, we have the resources and knowledge necessary to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Local anesthesia numbs a small area. It's injected into your body through a needle. You might have it before getting stitches or having a mole removed. The anesthetic numbs the nerve endings in your skin. That way, you won't feel pain in the area where you're having the procedure done.
Applications for local anesthesia include:
- Dental work
- Childbirth
- Biopsies
- Mohs surgery (a type of skin cancer removal)
When local anesthesia is done correctly, it's safe and effective. But there are potential risks for complications, here are the most common ones:
- Allergic reactions
- Bleeding Infection
- Nerve damage
- Paralysis
- Skin necrosis (death of skin tissue)
Regional anesthesia is a type of anesthesia that numbs a large area of the body. It's often used during surgeries on the arms, legs, or other locations below the waist. Some common examples of regional anesthesia include:
- Spinal anesthesia: This numbs the lower half of your body. It's often used during childbirth, surgeries on the pelvis or lower abdomen, and some types of surgery on the legs.
- Epidural anesthesia: This numbs the area between your spinal cord and your lower half's outermost layer of skin.
- Peripheral nerve blocks: This numbs a specific nerve or group of nerves. It's used for procedures on any body part, such as hand, shoulder, or foot surgery.
Anesthesiologists are specially trained to give regional anesthesia safely. But as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved. The most common complication is a temporary drop in blood pressure, which is usually treated with medication. More severe complications, such as nerve damage or paralysis, can occur in rare cases.
General anesthesia is a medical procedure that renders patients unconscious during surgery or other medical procedures. It is typically administered through an intravenous (IV) line, inhaled gas, or a combination of the two.
Typical applications of general anesthesia include:
- childbirth
- organ transplantation
- open heart surgery
- major trauma surgery
It’s important to know the potential risks associated with general anesthesia before undergoing any medical procedure.
- Overdose: An overdose of anesthesia can lead to respiratory depression, resulting in brain damage or death.
- Allergic reactions: Some patients may be allergic to the drugs used in anesthesia, which can lead to difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling.
- Malignant hyperthermia: This is a rare but severe complication that can occur when patients are exposed to certain drugs used during anesthesia. Symptoms include fever, muscle rigidity, and increased heart rate.
- Nerve damage: If the nerves are not adequately protected during surgery, they may be damaged by the anesthesia. This can lead to paralysis, numbness, or chronic pain.
- Blood clots: Anesthesia can increase the risk of blood clots, which can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism.
- Post-operative delirium: This is a common complication that can occur after surgery. Symptoms include confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations.
If you have been the victim of anesthesia negligence, do not hesitate to contact an attorney. Anesthesia mistakes can cause severe and life-altering injuries, and you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Our attorneys are experienced in handling these cases and are ready to help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. 718-424-5560