Medical Malpractice and Pulmonary Embolism
A pulmonary embolism is a potentially fatal condition that occurs when an artery in the lung becomes blocked by a blood clot. Clots typically travel to the lung from other areas of the body, particularly the legs.
The attorneys at Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, PC, have recovered significant financial compensation for clients who suffered a pulmonary embolism because of medical malpractice. Our lawyers also represent the estates of those who died of a pulmonary embolism caused by medical negligence.
How Does It Happen?
Deep vein thrombosis, blood clots that form deep in the veins of the leg, are typically the underlying cause of pulmonary embolism. These clots can form when a person is immobile for a long period of time during surgery or illness or while on long plane or car trips.
Age, weight, pregnancy, childbirth and taking birth control pills are also risk factors. A recent orthopedic injury, from a bone fracture to a serious bruise, can also trigger the formation of a blood clot.
Surgical patients are at risk of pulmonary embolism, particularly if the surgery lasts more than two hours. The standards of care regarding prevention of pulmonary embolism in surgical patients are clear. Those at risk of pulmonary embolism should be put on anti-coagulants and wear elastic stockings after a surgery. Unfortunately these blood-thinning medications are frequently not given to patients or are stopped too soon. Failure to monitor a patient's condition after surgery can result in a pulmonary embolism if a blood clot forms in a swollen foot or leg.
Did a heath care professional fail to diagnose or misdiagnose a pulmonary embolism? Please contact the attorneys at Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, PC. We offer a free consultation to review your case and advise you of your legal rights and options.
From offices in Bridgeport, Danbury and New Haven, Connecticut, our medical malpractice lawyers represent people throughout the state who suffered a pulmonary embolism due to medical negligence.