SURGICAL ERRORS
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Surgical Error Lawsuits in Florida
Every surgery carries risk—but patients have the right to expect their surgeon and medical team to follow proper standards of care. When mistakes happen in the operating room, the results are often catastrophic.
At Loutos Law, we represent victims of surgical errors across Florida. From our home on the Treasure Coast to Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and beyond, we hold hospitals and surgeons accountable when preventable mistakes change lives forever.
What Are Surgical Errors?
Surgical errors are preventable mistakes made before, during, or after a procedure that fall below the accepted medical standard of care.
Not every complication is malpractice. But when harm is caused by carelessness, poor technique, or failure to follow protocols, patients may have a valid surgical error claim.
Common Types of Surgical Errors
01
Wrong-Site Surgery
Operating on the wrong body part—such as the wrong arm, leg, or organ—is a shocking but real occurrence.
02
Wrong-Patient Surgery
Due to identification errors, surgeons sometimes perform a procedure on the wrong patient entirely.
03
Retained Surgical Instruments
Leaving sponges, clamps, or instruments inside a patient’s body can cause infections, pain, and the need for further surgeries.
04
Anesthesia Errors During Surgery
Mistakes with anesthesia can result in brain damage, cardiac arrest, or even death.
05
Nerve or Organ Damage
Poor surgical technique can sever nerves, puncture organs, or damage surrounding tissue.
06
Infection Due to Unsanitary Conditions
Failure to maintain sterile environments can lead to post-operative infections or sepsis.
07
Failure to Monitor During Surgery
Failure to maintain sterile environments can lead to post-operative infections or sepsis.
08
Improper Placement of Medical Devices or Hardware
Orthopedic screws, plates, or prosthetics placed incorrectly can cause pain, instability, or the need for revision surgeries.
09
Delayed Surgery
In emergencies, delaying surgery when immediate action is needed can cost lives.
10
Unnecessary Surgery
Performing procedures that are not medically necessary exposes patients to risks without benefit.
Why Surgical Errors Happen
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Fatigue – Surgeons and staff working long shifts under pressure
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Poor Communication – Miscommunication among surgical teams
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Lack of Protocols – Inadequate safety checks
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Understaffing – Rushed procedures with too few nurses or support staff
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Inexperience – Residents or inexperienced surgeons performing complex operations
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Corporate Cost-Cutting – Hospitals prioritizing profits over patient safety
Consequences of Surgical Errors
The impact of surgical mistakes can be life-altering, including:
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Permanent disability
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Loss of mobility
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Chronic pain
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Nerve damage or paralysis
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Organ failure
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Severe infections
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Wrongful death
Many patients require additional surgeries, extended hospitalizations, or lifelong medical care.
Real-World Examples of Surgical Error Negligence
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A sponge is left inside a patient after surgery, causing infection and emergency removal.
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A surgeon operates on the wrong knee, leaving the original injury untreated.
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An anesthesiologist gives too much medication, leading to permanent brain injury.
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A patient develops sepsis after staff fail to maintain sterile conditions.
Florida Law and Surgical Malpractice
Surgical errors fall under Chapter 766 of the Florida Statutes (Medical Malpractice Law). To prove a case, patients must show:
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A doctor-patient relationship existed.
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The surgeon or hospital breached the accepted medical standard of care.
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The breach directly caused injury.
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The patient suffered damages as a result.
Because surgical cases are complex, expert testimony is essential to explain what went wrong and why it was preventable.
Damages Available in Surgical Error Cases
Victims of surgical negligence in Florida may recover compensation for:
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Medical expenses (past and future surgeries, rehabilitation, hospital care)
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Lost wages and reduced earning potential
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Pain and suffering
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Permanent disability or disfigurement
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Wrongful death damages for families of deceased patients
How Loutos Law Fights Surgical Error Cases
Surgical negligence cases are often defended aggressively by hospitals and their insurers. At Loutos Law, we have the resources, experience, and trial skills to fight back.
We provide:
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In-depth investigation into surgical records, operative reports, and hospital policies
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Collaboration with medical experts to prove negligence
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Aggressive litigation against surgeons, anesthesiologists, and hospitals
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Trial readiness—we prepare every case as if it will go before a jury
We have successfully gone up against major hospitals and healthcare corporations in Florida and nationwide—and won.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Surgical Error Cases in Florida
LOUTOS LAW
Protects Surgical Error Victims Across Florida
Surgical errors are devastating—but they are also preventable. When hospitals and surgeons fail to uphold their duty of care, patients and families deserve justice.
At Loutos Law, we fight for surgical error victims across Florida, from the Treasure Coast to Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and beyond.
If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a surgical error, contact Loutos Law today for a free consultation. We’ll hold negligent providers accountable and pursue the justice you deserve.