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Did A Surgeon Make An Error During Gallbladder Surgery?

While gallbladder surgery is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the country, surgical errors still occur. At the law firm of Hixson & Brown, P.C., our Iowa gallbladder surgery lawyers have decades of combined experience litigating surgical error claims and other medical malpractice cases. We prepare every case as if it were going to trial and our opposition knows we are not afraid to litigate on behalf of our clients’ rights and interests.

Types Of Gallbladder Surgery

Surgeons can perform either traditional surgery or laparoscopic surgery to remove the gallbladder. These procedures are quite different:

  • Traditional (open) surgery: Known as an open cholecystectomy, this procedure involves making a large incision on the right side of the patient’s abdomen while he or she is under general anesthesia. Blood vessels and ducts are cut for the gallbladder to be removed.
  • Laparoscopic surgery: Known as a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, this procedure is used in the majority of gallbladder surgeries today. It involves a much smaller incision and the insertion of a hollow trocar tube that allows the surgeon to work by means of a small video camera inside the patient’s body.

Common Errors Made In Gallbladder Surgery

Without proper attention and care, a surgeon can easily make surgical mistakes that lead to a host of serious side effects, including:

  • Cutting the common bile duct: If a surgeon accidentally cuts or nicks the bile duct, the bile can leak into the abdominal cavity and may lead to peritonitis or sepsis.
  • Lacerating other organs: Occasionally intestines or other internal organs are nicked or damaged during gallbladder surgery.
  • Damage to the bile or hepatic duct: Due to damage, the ducts may narrow, resulting in continuing pain and digestive problems for the patient.
  • Inflammation of the ducts: Inflamed bile ducts can cause bacteria in the small intestine to flow the wrong way, resulting in a serious infection called cholangitis.

Free Initial Consultation With Our Iowa Gallbladder Surgery Attorneys

To request a free case evaluation, call the West Des Moines, Iowa, medical malpractice lawyer office of Hixson & Brown, P.C., at 515-644-6133. You can also reach us via our online contact form.