Unveiling the Situations Where Medical Malpractice Can Result in Blindness

 Posted on July 25, 2023 in Personal Injury

Medical malpractice occurs when healthcare professionals fail to provide a standard level of care, resulting in avoidable harm to the patient. When medical malpractice affects the eyes and visual system, the consequences, including instances of blindness, can be devastating. Today, we will explore certain types of medical malpractice that can lead to vision loss or complete blindness. If your vision has been affected by medical malpractice, contact a personal injury lawyer to ensure your legal needs can be taken care of at this time. 

Here Are the Ways Medical Malpractice Can Lead to Blindness

Medical malpractice can result in blindness through:

• Surgical errors – Errors during eye surgeries, such as cataract surgeries, LASIK procedures, or retina surgery, can lead to vision loss and blindness. Mistakes during incisions, improper handling of delicate eye tissue, or anesthesia errors can have irreversible consequences for a patient’s eyesight. 

• Failure to diagnose or treat eye conditions – Failure to diagnose or promptly treat eye conditions and diseases can result in vision loss. Inadequate screenings, misinterpretations of imaging results, or delays in referrals to specialists can hinder the timely intervention required to prevent further damage or progression of conditions leading to blindness.

• Improper medication or treatment – Incorrect prescription or medication intended for eye conditions can severely affect vision. Administering the wrong medication, giving the incorrect dosage, or giving incomplete or erroneous instructions can worsen the patient’s underlying condition or cause new complications. 

• Infection mismanagement – Improper sterilization practices, poor postoperative care, or negligence in identifying and treating infections can lead to serious eye complications, including permanent vision loss. Infections left untreated or improperly managed can damage the delicate eye tissues and optic nerve, leading to blindness. 

• Retinal detachment – Late or misdiagnosis of retinal detachment, a condition where the retina detaches from its underlying structure, can result in vision loss. Failure to perform timely surgery or adequately inform the patient of the urgent need for care can lead to irreversible damage to the retina and permanent vision impairment.

• Negligence in optical procedures – In some cases, negligence during an optical procedure, such as the improper use of tools or equipment, can lead to severe eye damage. Neglecting safety protocols, exposing the eyes to harmful substances, or inappropriate care during procedures can cause vision-threatening complications.  

Contact a Fort Lauderdale Medical Malpractice Lawyer

In Florida, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice is two years. Do not wait. If you or someone you love has lost their vision due to medical malpractice, contact the skilled Broward County medical malpractice attorneys with The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A.. Call 800-555-4011 for a free consultation. 

Source - https://www.floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-journal/florida-medical-malpractice-and-the-statute-of-limitations/