Alarming Malpractice: Are You Safe While You’re Under Anesthesia?

Photo of two surgeons doing surgery

Have you ever had surgery? Have you ever wondered what goes on once you have been put under anesthesia? Many Americans put faith in their doctors that once they are under, their doctor will take care of them and protect them. But what if your doctor doesn’t do that?

Malpractice Under Anesthesia: What to Look Out For

A doctor in the United Kingdom just pleaded guilty to charges that he assaulted his patients while conducting liver transplants. This revelation shocked the British medical community, especially when the doctor’s résumé was considered, having worked as a specialist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. This physician was a celebrity, having saved many lives and even using a liver in a transplant after the transport delivering the organ had crashed. However, his stardom may have grown too large for his ego.

After a liver transplant, a woman visited her doctor for a follow-up visit where it was noted that her liver was not healing properly. Upon examination, the initials of the doctor who had performed her surgery were discovered. Allegedly, the surgeon had used an electric beam to burn his initials into the woman’s liver. Though such marks usually simply heal, in this case they did not, and it lead to this discovery. Another patient of this doctor also came forward with the surgeon’s initials branded into his liver.

After a suspension and subsequent resignation, the surgeon’s medical license hangs in the balance. There is no word yet on what his sentence will be after confessing to the criminal charges levied against him.

Doctors are trusted with their patients’ health and lives, especially when surgery is involved, but this responsibility doesn’t always prevent negligent behavior. If you are experiencing severe pain or your recovery time is taking longer than it should after a surgery, then you need to get a second opinion and contact an attorney. Seeing another medical specialist can help you figure out what may have happened to you while you were under anesthesia, and an attorney can help protect your rights as you go through this process.



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