December 22, 2011 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released an update announcing that they are developing an initiative to prevent surgical fires. Approximately 550 to 650 surgical fires occur ever year in the U.S. This type of surgical hazard could lead to severe injuries, including 2nd and 3rd degree burns. And if it were to happen in a patient’s airway, it could be fatal. The FDA reports that 2 patients recently sustained serious facial burns as a result of a surgical fire. These result in devastating consequences. The FDA’s initiative aims to increase awareness of fire risks and to have surgical personnel adopt guidelines to prevent these kinds of fires from occurring. Partners of the initiative include:
- associations representing healthcare facilities;
- surgical teams;
- patient safety organizations; and
- healthcare engineering organizations.
Surgical fires can be caused by 3 elements mixing together – fuel, oxidizer and heat. The types of surgeries most at risk for a surgical fire are those involving the:
- upper chest;
- neck; and
- head.
When this type, or any other type, of medical negligence leads to serious or fatal injuries, then compensation may be available by filing a claim against the negligent party. You should consult with a New York medical malpractice attorney if you would like to have your case reviewed. You may be eligible to file a claim against the doctor or any other healthcare professional that acted in a negligent manner.
Contacting a New York Medical Malpractice Attorney
When you have sustained a serious injury or lost a loved one because of medical negligence you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages and suffering. Consulting with a New York medical malpractice attorney can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries, and decide if filing a medical malpractice claim is right for you. At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of medical malpractice attorneys to serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective drug, premises liability, and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your medical malpractice claim, contact us today– 1-800-246-4878.
