An intubation procedure involves using a tube and ventilator to assist patients get air in and out of the lungs. It is a crucial medical procedure, though one that can be done incorrectly. When intubation errors occur, long term injury can result.
A common intubation error intubation is failing to insert the tracheal tube properly. When nurses and anesthesiologists make intubation mistakes, the airway can be lacerated or sufficient oxygen may not be delivered. Intubation malpractice and medical negligence may lead to nerve damage, airway injury or death.
Airway injuries are a well-known complication of anesthesia. The American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) injury database has recorded numerous adverse respiratory events. Injuries to the larynx, pharynx, and esophagus are not uncommon. Following an airway injury or intubation error, contact an Intubation Malpractice Attorney to investigate.
The Lyon Firm reviews hospital negligence and medical malpractice claims. We work with industry experts to determine the root cause of an accident and injury and hold negligent parties accountable for the injuries they have caused.
Joe Lyon is a Hospital Negligence Lawyer and Intubation Malpractice Attorney reviewing airway injury lawsuits and anesthesia errors for injured plaintiffs nationwide.
What is Intubation?
Endotracheal intubation is accomplished by passing a tube through a patient’s mouth and into the trachea. Nasal intubation, in turn, uses the nasal passage for the same effect. Airway management is a critical skill for nurses, doctors and anesthesiologists.
The failure to secure an adequate airway will deprive a patient of oxygen and may lead to injury, long-term disability, and death. The intubation medical procedure carries certain risks and complications, including:
- Improperly placing the tube
- Perforating tissue in the esophagus, larynx or pharynx
- Unintentionally dislodging the airway tube
- Over inflating the tube
- Under inflating the tube
Intubation Injuries & Poor Airway Management
When medical errors and malpractice events occur, intubated patients can suffer serious injuries and complications, including:
- Anoxic or hypoxic brain damage
- Stroke
- Irregular arrhythmia
- Vocal cord injury
- Injured lungs
- Laryngospasms or bronchospasms
- Cervical spine fracture
- Perforated esophagus
- Perforated trachea
- Nerve damage
- Infection
Intubation Malpractice Attorney
Patients relay on the expertise of hospital staff, nurses, physicians and anesthesiologists to perform medical procedures correctly. When Hospital Error Lawyer or medical malpractice results in injury or death, a Hospital Negligence Lawyer and Intubation Malpractice Attorney can assist in filing personal injury claims against individuals and hospitals responsible.
The Lyon Firm reviews a wide variety of malpractice cases and can offer consultations to injured plaintiffs to see if rightful compensation and settlement is likely. Every medical malpractice case is unique and will require a full investigation.