Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, commonly known as “lap chole,” is a routine and generally safe procedure for removing the gallbladder. It’s a minimally invasive surgery that offers quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. However, even with advancements in medical technology, mistakes can happen. When surgical errors or negligence during a lap chole procedure lead to serious patient injury, it can constitute medical malpractice, entitling victims to significant compensation.
At Sansone & Lauber, www.MissouriLawyers.com, we understand the devastating impact of medical malpractice. For decades, our dedicated team, led by Ben Sansone, has fiercely advocated for injured patients and their families throughout Missouri and Illinois. We have a proven track record of success in complex medical malpractice cases, including those involving gallbladder surgery complications and bile duct injuries from laparoscopic cholecystectomy negligence.
What Can Go Wrong During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
While lap chole is common, it’s not without risks. Unfortunately, surgeon error or substandard care can turn a routine procedure into a life-altering event. Some of the most common medical malpractice issues associated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy include:
- Bile Duct Injuries (Common Bile Duct Transection/Ligation): This is perhaps the most serious and frequent complication. A surgeon may mistakenly cut, clip, or injure the common bile duct or other important ducts instead of the cystic duct, leading to bile leaks, infection, liver damage, and the need for multiple corrective surgeries.
- Perforation of Organs: During the insertion of instruments or dissection, surrounding organs like the intestines, liver, or stomach can be perforated, leading to severe internal bleeding, infection (sepsis), and other life-threatening complications.
- Vascular Injuries: Damage to blood vessels, even minor ones, can lead to significant bleeding during or after the surgery, requiring transfusions and further interventions.
- Failure to Convert to Open Surgery: If complications arise during a laparoscopic procedure, the standard of care often dictates that the surgeon convert to an open procedure for better visibility and control. Failing to do so when necessary can be a critical error.
- Failure to Recognize and Address Complications: Even if an injury occurs, a surgeon’s failure to promptly recognize and appropriately manage the complication post-surgery can lead to worsening conditions and severe patient harm.
These surgical errors can result in prolonged hospital stays, additional surgeries, chronic pain, digestive issues, permanent disability, and even wrongful death. If you or a loved one has suffered from a gallbladder surgery malpractice injury, it’s crucial to seek experienced legal counsel immediately.
Medical Malpractice Law in Missouri and Illinois
Navigating medical malpractice claims is complex, requiring in-depth knowledge of both medical procedures and state-specific laws. In both Missouri and Illinois, to succeed in a medical malpractice lawsuit, you must generally prove four key elements:
- Duty of Care: The healthcare provider (surgeon, hospital, nurse, etc.) owed you a professional duty of care. This is typically established by the doctor-patient relationship.
- Breach of Duty (Negligence): The healthcare provider breached that duty of care by acting or failing to act in a manner that deviated from the accepted standard of care for a reasonably prudent medical professional in a similar situation. Expert medical testimony is almost always required to establish this.
- Causation: The healthcare provider’s breach of duty directly caused your injury or worsened your condition. This means your injury would not have occurred but for their negligence.
- Damages: You suffered actual harm or losses (economic and non-economic) as a result of the injury. This can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Key Differences: Statute of Limitations
It is critical to be aware of the strict deadlines for filing medical malpractice claims, known as the statute of limitations:
- Missouri Medical Malpractice Statute of Limitations: Generally, you have two (2) years from the date of the injury to file a medical malpractice lawsuit.
- Illinois Medical Malpractice Statute of Limitations: In Illinois, the general rule is two (2) years from the date you knew or should have known of the injury. However, there’s an absolute outer limit of four (4) years from the date the malpractice occurred, regardless of when the injury was discovered. There are also specific rules for minors.
These deadlines are crucial. Missing them can permanently bar your right to seek compensation. Don’t delay in contacting a medical malpractice attorney if you suspect negligence.
Why Choose Sansone & Lauber for Your Lap Chole Malpractice Case?
When you’re facing the aftermath of a serious surgical error or medical negligence, you need a law firm with a proven track record and a deep understanding of complex medical malpractice litigation. Ben Sansone and the team at Sansone & Lauber have a strong history of achieving significant results for our clients.
Our firm is committed to helping victims of medical negligence in both Missouri and Illinois. We have successfully represented clients in cases involving various surgical errors, including those arising from gallbladder removal surgery. Our dedication to meticulous investigation, expert collaboration, and aggressive advocacy has led to substantial settlements and verdicts.
Notable Past Results (including but not limited to):
- $4,750,000.00 – Medical Malpractice Settlement, Misdiagnosis
- $4,600,000.00 – Missouri Medical Malpractice – Settlement
- CONFIDENTIAL Settlement – Gallbladder Removal Medical Malpractice
These results reflect our commitment to securing maximum compensation for our clients who have suffered due to healthcare negligence. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take, and we fight tirelessly to ensure justice is served.
Seeking Justice After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Complications
If you or a loved one has suffered complications or injuries following a laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Missouri or Illinois, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. Our experienced medical malpractice lawyers offer:
- Free, Confidential Case Evaluations: We will review your medical records and listen to your story to determine if you have a viable claim.
- Expert Medical Consultations: We work with a network of top medical experts who can assess your case and provide crucial testimony.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We are not afraid to take on hospitals, insurance companies, and negligent healthcare providers to protect your rights.
- No Upfront Fees: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Don’t let a surgical mistake define your future. Contact Sansone & Lauber today at www.MissouriLawyers.com or call us to schedule your free consultation. Let us put our experience and proven results to work for you, helping you on the path to recovery and justice.
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