CAT Scans
It has always been a challenge to accurately determine the source of a patient’s health problems. Earlier in the history of medicine there were enormous gaps in the knowledge of anatomy and physiology, in addition to a limited understanding of diseases and their causes.
Though there still remains much to be discovered, significant progress has been made in diagnostic techniques. From the turn of the 20th century until now technological advances have enabled doctors to learn a great deal about countless illnesses. Computed axial tomography, better known as a CAT scan is an example of a technology that has revolutionized patient care.
But it is not without its drawbacks. If you have experienced complications from a CAT scan because you were not properly advised of the potential dangers of the procedure, contact the Pennsylvania lack of informed consent lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 610-667-7511.
Risks Associated with Cat Scans
There are few drugs, treatments, surgical procedures, or other things in the practice of medicine that are completely devoid of patient risk. CAT scans, unfortunately, are no exception. Like X-Rays, CAT scans utilize substantial amounts of radiation to create a view of the internal workings of a patient’s body. Exposure to excessive radiation has been linked to cancer and other illnesses, so the failure to properly maintain the machinery or to monitor for risk factors can have adverse health effects. Potential issues include:
- Diabetics may be susceptible to liver or kidney damage from the solutions used in a scan
- Women who may be pregnant risk injury to their unborn children
- Overexposure to radiation may cause cancer
Contact Us
First and foremost, your doctor must fully warn you of the potential complications associated with a CAT scan so that you can make an informed decision about the administration of your medical care. Contact the Pennsylvania lack of informed consent lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 610-667-7511 if you have not been afforded that right.