When a Routine Surgery Ends With the Loss of a Child

While children typically only undergo medically necessary surgical procedures, some are considered “routine.” Examples can include tonsillectomies, the placement of ear tubes, appendectomies, and hernia repairs. What happens, though, when one of those routine surgeries ends in tragedy? What recourse do parents have when a surgeon makes a critical mistake that causes the loss of a child? The following information explains, and it provides you with details on how an experienced medical malpractice lawyer can help with your case.

One Detroit mother, who is still trying to cope with the loss of her 9-year-old daughter, serves as a painful reminder that even routine surgeries have risks. The girl suffered from enlarged tonsils that caused severe snoring problems in her sleep. Doctors assured the mother that a routine tonsillectomy would remedy the issue. Sadly, the surgery turned out to be anything but routine.

News sources that interviewed the mother indicate that the surgery, which should have taken just 40 minutes, had lasted two hours. Then, the mother claims that her daughter was discharged, long before she was ready. Within just a few hours of surgery, she died. Medical reports suggest the cause was either an obstructed airway, anesthesia complications, or an undetected heart condition. Although an autopsy must be done to determine the exact cause of death, anesthesia complications are one of the most common causes of surgically-related childhood deaths.

Of all the patients that should be protected, children and the elderly are among the most critical. They are more vulnerable to illness and infection. They can be impacted more severely by a mistake. They are more likely to suffer a fatality. When negligence is the cause of that death, family members have the right to pursue compensation. Unfortunately, this process is complex and arduous. As such, families are encouraged to seek assistance from an experienced attorney.

If you or someone you love has experienced the tragic loss of a child or another family member after surgery, contact Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP for assistance. Dedicated and experienced, our San Jose medical negligence lawyers can handle all the legal details of the case, giving you and your family the time you need to grieve and heal. In every case, we aggressively pursue the most favorable outcome. Schedule your free and personalized consultation to get started. Call (408) 289-1417 today.

• Family plans to sue after 9-year-old dies following routine tonsillectomy