Endoscopic Procedure Injuries and Recovery Timelines

Widely used in medical diagnostics and treatment plans, endoscopic procedures offer a minimally invasive approach to explore and treat internal organs. While generally safe, errors made by healthcare teams or facilities during these procedures can result in serious injuries.

Recognize that while endoscopic procedures are designed to help patients, when negligence leads to harm, you deserve justice. After a medical error, reach out to an experienced Bucks County personal injury attorney to explore your options for recovery.

Common Endoscopic Procedure Injuries

An endoscopic procedure involves the use of a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached, known as an endoscope, which is inserted into the body. Endoscopy is commonly used to diagnose or treat conditions in the digestive tract, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, or cancers.

The procedure is considered minimally invasive because it requires only small incisions or, in some cases, none at all, as the endoscope may be inserted through a natural opening like the mouth or rectum. Patients usually experience a faster recovery and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery, making it a preferred option for many conditions.

Yet despite the overall safety of endoscopic procedures, errors can occur. Some common injuries related to endoscopic procedures include the following.

• Perforation of organs. The endoscope can sometimes puncture an organ, such as the stomach, esophagus, or intestines. This type of injury can lead to infections, internal bleeding, and the need for emergency surgery.
• While minor bleeding is common during some endoscopic procedures, excessive bleeding can occur if blood vessels are damaged. In severe cases, the bleeding can be life-threatening.
• Poor sterilization practices can lead to infections. The introduction of bacteria during the procedure may result in sepsis or other serious infections requiring intensive medical care.
• Anesthesia complication. Some endoscopic procedures require general anesthesia or sedation, which carries its own risks. Complications from anesthesia can lead to respiratory problems, heart issues, or prolonged unconsciousness.
• Failure to diagnose. In some cases, medical professionals may miss critical signs of disease during the procedure, delaying necessary treatment and worsening the patient’s condition.

Healthcare providers and medical groups are responsible for ensuring that endoscopic procedures are performed safely. Negligence can occur in various stages, from the preparation of the procedure to the post-operative care.

Recovery Timelines After an Endoscopic Injury

In most situations recovery from an endoscopic procedure is quick, but if complications arise, the timeline can be significantly extended. Minor injuries may heal in a few days to weeks, while more severe complications, such as organ perforation or infections, may require hospitalization, additional surgeries, and months of recovery.

Long-term or permanent damage can lead to pain, stress, and high expenses. When struggling with medical costs, talk to a Bucks County personal injury attorney about pursuing compensation.

Could you use support after you or a loved one was injured due to an error during an endoscopic procedure? Consult with the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. A skilled attorney can investigate the incident, determine liability, and pursue financial relief for damages and losses. Call 215-968-6602 for a confidential consultation.