Surgical Errors

Surgical errors can occur during even the most routine procedures, and their consequences can be tragic. We're experienced in making sure families get a full and fair airing of their cases.

Case Story 1

The Case: Following the birth of her twins, a 35-year-old mother of three sought out a surgeon for two procedures. The surgeon advised her to have the surgery performed as a single procedure in his office, which required over five hours of general anesthesia. After only an hour of post-operation monitoring, she was sent home to rest – despite complaining of nausea and weakness. She died the next day. The Results: Pulley Watson consulted experts that help bring the case to a successful resolution. Though their mother could not be replaced, Pulley Watson helped the family create a life care plan through a structured settlement, so that the children will always be cared for as they grow. Attorney: Richard Watson

Case Story 2

The Case: Jeff came to Pulley Watson after what should have been routine back surgery went horribly wrong. Just a few days after the surgery, the surgeon who performed the operation was made aware of the complications he was experiencing, but did not act on them in a timely fashion. As a result, his patient has now lost the use of his bowels and bladder. The Results: Medical experts hired by Pulley Watson determined that the surgeon had been negligent in his responsibilities. Damages were awarded to Jeff, paying for past and future medical needs, and compensating him for his inability to work. Pulley Watson also worked with Jeff and a life care planner to provide the best vocational and medical experts and help him live the fullest life possible. Attorney: Guy Crabtree

Case Story 3

The Case: When Jim was in his mid forties, he entered the hospital for what was supposed to be routine surgery. A medical professional gave him an injection from an unmarked syringe, which turned out to contain a corrosive non-surgical fluid. In the aftermath, Jim suffered muscular degeneration and chronic pain. The Investigation: Jim at first attempted to settle this case on his own, with no luck. When he came to Pulley Watson, our attorneys had the resources to track down the key out-of-state witnesses who were vital to proving his case. The Results: Once Pulley Watson attorneys were able to present a thorough case for Jim, the doctor in charge of the surgery accepted responsibility. The settlement that Jim received paid for all of his medical bills and lost wages, as well as compensating him for his suffering and mental anguish. Attorney: Tracy Lischer

Case Story 4

The Case: Based on his doctor's advice David elected to have a routine sinus surgery. During the surgery, his surgeon lost sight of the markers that should have guided his progress, and strayed into David's brain, damaging the frontal lobe. Because of this injury, David suffers chronic headaches and has lost the ability to control initiative and "executive functions" – his organizing, planning and processing capabilities. The Results: Pulley Watson attorneys were able to successfully present David's case and recover a settlement that provides for his ongoing medical care and – since he is no longer able to work at his previous positions – future lost wages. Attorney: Tracy Lischer

NOTE: Names of clients have been changed for confidentiality reasons.