New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawyers Discuss the Risk of Lymphedema Following Surgery
Even the most routine surgeries can lead to complications, simply because the body is in a temporarily vulnerable state. Two of the most common post-operative complications are infection and blood clots. Lymphedema is another complication and while not as common, it can lead to serious, prolonged health issues. In some cases, lymphedema is the result of medical negligence. When this happens, it is in your best interest to contact a New Jersey surgical mistakes lawyer who can help protect your interests and hold the negligent parties responsible.
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is either damaged or becomes compromised. As a result, the fluid that the body normally transfers to the blood stream gets re-circulated into organ tissue. This causes swelling in the arms and/or legs and can lead to infection.
Causes of Lymphedema
There are a number of factors that can cause lymphedema, including the following:
- Family history
- Damage to – or removal of – lymph nodes
- Radiation therapy
- Certain surgical procedures
- Cancer
Treatment Options
While lymphedema has no cure, there are treatment options available that can control the symptoms, including:
- Pharmaceutical treatments
- Physical therapy
- Light exercise using the affected limb(s) can encourage fluid movement
- Bandages or massage techniques that help with fluid drainage
- Compression hosiery that can help fluid flow out of the affected limb
- Pneumatic sleeve attached to a pump will inflate and deflate, helping the fluid to flow properly
- Surgically remove excess tissue caused by lymphedema
Lymphedema Caused by Medical Negligence
When medical negligence is the cause of lymphedema, you may pursue a medical malpractice case against the health care provider. For a lymphedema medical malpractice case to be successful, there must be a breach of the standard of care that caused the injury. For example, if your doctor missed signs of lymphedema, including swelling, fatigue, infection or restricted range of motion, you may have a viable cause of action as the standard of care includes post-operative care.
New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP Advocate for Victims of Surgical Mistakes
If you have been diagnosed with lymphedema following surgery as a result of a doctor’s mistake, you may be eligible for financial compensation. New Jersey medical malpractice lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP will examine the details of your case and determine the best legal course of action. Protecting your rights is our top priority and we will not stop fighting on your behalf until justice has been served. For a free consultation, call us today at 732-777-0100 or contact us online. Our offices are located in Edison, Toms River and Red Bank where we serve clients throughout New Jersey.
Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP has purposely remained small in size, because it is important to us that we get to know our clients and their needs. Larger NJ injury firms may churn out case after case, but that’s not how we operate. Partners Barry Eichen, William Crutchlow, and Daryl Zaslow have created a firm with the resources to handle complex litigation, and a team that takes your case personally.
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