Santa Fe Surgical Error Lawyer

Common Types of Surgical Errors

Surgical errors can occur before, during, or after a procedure. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Wrong-site surgery – Operating on the wrong body part or the wrong side of the body.
• Wrong-patient surgery – Performing surgery on the wrong individual due to misidentification.
• Foreign objects left inside the body – Sponges, surgical tools, or other equipment accidentally left inside a patient.
• Anesthesia errors – Incorrect dosage, failure to monitor vital signs, or failure to consider allergies and medical history.
• Nerve or organ damage – Unintentional cuts, punctures, or permanent damage to healthy organs and nerves.
• Infections due to poor sterilization – Contamination caused by failure to follow proper hygiene and sterilization procedures.
• Failure to monitor post-operative recovery – Not properly checking for complications such as blood clots, internal bleeding, or infections.

Each of these errors has the potential to cause life-threatening or life-altering consequences.

Common Causes of Surgical Errors

While not every poor medical outcome is caused by negligence, many surgical errors are entirely preventable. Common causes include:

• Fatigue – Long shifts and lack of rest can lead to dangerous lapses in judgment.
• Inadequate training – Surgeons or staff who are not properly trained may make avoidable mistakes.
• Poor communication – Miscommunication between doctors, nurses, and surgical staff can result in wrong-site or wrong-patient surgeries.
• Improper pre-operative planning – Failing to properly review medical records, allergies, or pre-surgical requirements.
• Lack of standardized protocols – Deviating from accepted surgical safety procedures or failing to use checklists.
• Negligent post-operative care – Ignoring symptoms or failing to act quickly when complications arise.

When medical professionals fail to meet the accepted standard of care, they may be legally liable for the harm they cause.

Short- & Long-Term Effects of Surgical Errors

The impact of a surgical mistake can be immediate, long-lasting, and devastating:

Short-term effects may include:

• Severe pain and trauma
• Prolonged recovery periods
• Risk of infection or sepsis
• Emergency corrective surgeries

Long-term effects may include:

• Permanent disability or impairment
• Loss of organ function
• Chronic pain
• Reduced quality of life
• Emotional trauma, anxiety, and depression
• Increased medical costs due to corrective treatment and ongoing care

Some surgical errors may also lead to fatal consequences, leaving families to cope with wrongful death claims. Victims and families deserve justice, closure, and financial support to move forward.

Surgical Error FAQs

What qualifies as a surgical error?

A surgical error is a preventable mistake made before, during, or after surgery that deviates from the accepted standard of care. Not every complication is considered malpractice, but when negligence leads to avoidable harm, it may form the basis of a legal claim.

How do I prove a surgical error case in New Mexico?

To prove a surgical error, your attorney must show that:

1. A doctor-patient relationship existed
2. The healthcare provider acted negligently or failed to meet the standard of care
3. The negligence directly caused injury
4. The injury resulted in damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.)

Expert medical testimony is often required to demonstrate negligence.

What damages can I recover in a surgical error case?

Victims of surgical errors may recover compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)

Is there a time limit to file a claim in New Mexico?

Yes. In New Mexico, medical malpractice claims—including surgical errors—are generally subject to a three-year statute of limitations from the date of injury. However, exceptions may apply, such as when the error is not immediately discoverable. Consulting with an attorney promptly is essential.

Do I need a lawyer to pursue a surgical error case?

Medical malpractice cases are highly complex and require thorough investigation, expert witnesses, and strong legal strategy. Working with an experienced Santa Fe surgical error lawyer greatly improves your chances of securing fair compensation.

Contact Our Santa Fe Surgical Error Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a surgical mistake, you don’t have to face the consequences alone. At Harvey, Foote & Baker Law Firm, we fight for patients and families who have suffered due to preventable medical errors. Our team will investigate your case, consult medical experts, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t wait—your time to take legal action may be limited. Call (505) 295-2245 today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Santa Fe surgical error lawyer.