When a doctor makes a mistake, it can result in a serious health problem or even death.

Kidney inaccurately removed during surgery

On Behalf of | Jan 11, 2019 | Surgical Errors |

People in Washington State who consent to undergo planned surgeries should receive a thorough explanation of what will take place during their operations, especially if they are expected to be sedated and not awake during the events. This knowledge and overview may help reduce a person’s anxiety as it provides them some confirmation of what is going to happen. However, there may be times when a surgeon does not do what was explained.

In some situations, a medical emergency may warrant a different course of action. However, in other situations, surgical errors may be the root cause of different actions or outcomes. An example of this can be seen in the case of a woman in Florida. In 2016, the woman was admitted to the hospital for a surgery on her back. One surgeon was supposed to open her up and two other surgeons were supposed to perform the operation.

The first surgeon, however, did more than simply open the woman up in preparation for her intended operation. He also erroneously removed her fully functioning and healthy kidney. According to The Seattle Times, the kidney was believed to be a tumor due to its location which was lower than normal. The surgeon made the choice to remove the kidney without first reviewing the patient’s records or receiving consent from the woman or any designated medical power of attorney shey may have had.

The woman filed a medical malpractice lawsuit in the matter and the two surgeons who were to perform the back operation settled their portion for $250,000. The third surgeon is said to have settlted but for an undisclosed amount. That man must also pay a fine to the state board of medicine.