Parner
What are the most common instances of orthopedic surgery malpractice?
Bronx-Lebanon’s head of orthopedic surgery is facing some serious allegations of malpractice. Dr. Ira Kirschenbaum was hired to head the department in 2008. Since that time, four of his patients have died and he has been hit with ten malpractice lawsuits. The deaths linked to Dr. Kirschenbaum include a 57-year-old diabetic who has admitted for hip surgery. Her surgery was delayed by 14 days and she suffered serious complications, which were not addressed. She died after enduring an infected ulcer on her foot. Two more patients died within the next month, and when a fourth died, malpractice suits started to roll in.
Despite a slew of complaints and malpractice lawsuits, Bronx-Lebanon has taken no action against Dr. Kirschenbaum. Patients have continued to step forward with alarming reports of botched procedures, including one patient who went in for a knee replacement surgery and left unable to move his joint. The alleged actions of Dr. Kirschenbaum should serve as a reminder to all New Yorkers that doctors, despite oaths and training, do make mistakes, and these errors can cost patients greatly.
Orthopedic Surgery Malpractice
Orthopedic surgery is a branch of surgery that centers on conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Most orthopedic surgeries are performed on the knee, hip, ankle, elbow, shoulder, and spine. Procedures could include joint replacement, soft tissue repair, debridement, bone fracture repair, and the like. Orthopedics is a complex field that requires surgeons with advanced training.
Orthopedic surgeries can go wrong, just like most any type of surgery. Common instances of orthopedic surgery malpractice are as follows:
- Inadequate or incorrect preparation for surgery;
- Misreading diagnostic tests and performing an incorrect procedure;
- Inserting prosthesis that are an incorrect size;
- Using tools or devices that are not appropriate for the procedure;
- Failing to provide adequate follow up care.
These are just a few of many instances that could lead to a medical malpractice lawsuit against an orthopedic surgeon. Anyone who has undergone orthopedic surgery and suffered an injury as a result should consult with a New York medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney will review the facts of the case to determine whether you have a viable malpractice action.