Types of Brain Injury from Medical Malpractice

When a person is experiencing a health emergency and requires treatment, they trust their doctor and a skilled medical team to care for them. Treatment options such as surgery can carry many risks, so it is important that medical professionals are always prepared so they can provide successful treatment. When instances of medical malpractices occur, it can lead to brain injuries that can cause major health complications or death. As a personal injury lawyer who has worked with many clients is familiar with, there are several types of common brain injuries that victims of medical malpractice can suffer from.

What are common causes of brain damage?

Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor or healthcare worker fails to provide a reasonable level of care for their patient, resulting in harm or injury. To prove medical malpractice, a lawyer must establish evidence that directly links the negligent actions of the at-fault party to the patient’s injury. 

Brain damage can result due to a variety of reasons, including:

  • Misdiagnosis
  • Prescription errors
  • Failure to notice symptoms
  • Failure to record vital signs
  • Incorrect interpretation of lab results
  • Anesthesia errors before, during or after surgery
  • Improper use of medical device or equipment

What are common types of brain injuries in medical malpractice cases? 

A seasoned personal injury lawyer understands the many kinds of brain injuries that are often the focus in a number of medical malpractice cases. The following are some of the most common forms:

  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI). A traumatic brain injury occurs when the brain or skull experiences a violent external force, such as when a blunt object hits the head, resulting in bleeding or bruising of the brain. They can happen during birth when forceps are improperly used.
  • Non-traumatic brain injury. A lack of oxygen to the brain can cause non-traumatic brain injuries. Complications related to anesthesia for example, fall under this type of brain damage. The degree of harm to the brain depends on how long the brain was deprived of oxygen.  

A top personal injury lawyer, such as one from David & Philpot, P.L., can assist you with filing a claim if you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury because of a doctor or medical professional’s negligence. No one should have to suffer the consequences of another individual’s actions. Medical malpractice cases tend to be one of the most complex types of legal cases, so it is important that you seek a lawyer who has worked on those cases and successfully recovered compensation for their clients. Schedule an appointment now for a consultation so you can receive the help you need.