General Anesthesia and Intra-operative Awareness
Thanks to modern medical innovation, surgical procedures are performed under the power of general anesthesia, a treatment which renders the patient unconscious and oblivious to sensations of pain. Like all medical procedures, however, anesthesia can be incredibly harmful and even deadly if applied under the wrong circumstances or by an unqualified individual.
If you have suffered pain or other complications as a result of undergoing anesthesia for a procedure, you have the right to seek compensation for what you have endured. The Pennsylvania medical malpractice attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. know what it takes to obtain financial restitution for the victims of medical error. To speak to a legal professional, call 610-667-7511.
Who Is at Risk for Intra-operative Awareness?
In perhaps the most terrifying example of anesthesia-related error, the patient is not given enough of the drug to remain unconscious throughout the course of the operation. This situation is termed unintended intra-operative awareness. In most cases, the patient simply exhibits some degree of awareness without accompanying sensations of pain. In the worst-case scenario, however, the patient feels unbearable pain throughout the operation, and often suffers for many years after from the memory of his experience. Although cases of intra-operative awareness are uncommon (1-2 out of 1,000), a patient’s chances of experiencing it may increase if they:
- Are undergoing emergency surgery
- Regularly uses anticonvulsants, opiates, tranquilizers, or cocaine
- have a heart or lung condition
- Abuse alcohol
It is important that you discuss your unique health conditions with a medical professional before undergoing surgery. Unfortunately, however, doctors and other hospital staff are may make mistakes.
Contact Us
If the carelessness of a surgeon or anesthesiologist has caused your suffering, it is important to pursue the justice you deserve. Contact the trustworthy Pennsylvania medical malpractice attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 610-667-7511.