Michigan Bariatric Surgery Malpractice Lawyer

The number of surgical weight loss procedures, referred to by physicians as "bariatric surgery," performed annually has steadily increased over the course of the last twenty years. When diet and exercise fail to control severe obesity, many patients opt for a surgical procedure. Occasionally, surgeons or members of the surgical team, commit errors during the performance of bariatric procedures.

A few of the most common errors include:

• Cutting the wrong structures or organs during the surgery
• Injuring or damaging arteries or veins
• Failing to properly close or suture segments of stomach or bowel, referred to as "anastamosis"
• Failing to recognize post-operative infection or bleeding in a timely manner

Unfortunately, these errors can lead to significant health consequences for the patient, including severe infection due to leakage of stomach contents or blood into the abdomen, stomach injuries, damage to other organs such as the lungs, liver, intestines or other structures, stomach blockage, bowel obstruction, ulcerations, malnutrition, anemia, and herniation. Some injuries require prolonged medical attention; some require further surgery; others are fatal. In the event that a medical error occurs and the patient is injured during the operation, it is important to immediately retain a Michigan medical malpractice attorney who can assess the situation and determine whether negligence was a factor.

Types of Bariatric Surgeries

One of the most common bariatric procedures is "gastric by-pass." Also called a "hybrid procedure" because it involves both surgical reduction of the stomach and surgical "by-pass" of a portion of the small bowel (a "Roux-en Y" procedure), it is an extreme yet effective option for obese individuals. Another common bariatric procedure involves the placement of a restrictive band, commonly known as a "Lap Band," around a portion of the stomach to restrict the functional size of the stomach. These bands are typically adjustable, allowing the surgeon to tighten or loosen them depending upon the patient's needs and symptoms.

Lap Band and Gastric By-Pass Malpractice Lawyer in Michigan

At Sommers Schwartz, we consult with knowledgeable and highly-trained bariatric surgeons who review all aspects of the medical care provided during a weight loss surgery. If you believe that there may have been an error committed by a surgeon or medical staff member during your bariatric procedure, allow our firm to investigate. Our initial task will be to perform a thorough investigation. If there is evidence of medical negligence, we will work tirelessly on your behalf to provide compensation for the harms and losses you have suffered.

Contact a Michigan Bariatric Surgery Malpractice Attorney at our firm for more information about how we can help you obtain compensation for your injuries.