The Difference Between Anesthesia Risks and Errors

The use of general anesthesia is essential for many surgical procedures, allowing patients to remain unconscious and pain-free. While anesthesia is generally safe, it does come with inherent risks. However, there is a significant difference between expected anesthesia risks and errors caused by negligence, which can lead to serious injury or even death. When anesthesia mistakes occur due to medical negligence, the affected patient or their family may have grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit. At Conley Griggs Partin LLP in Atlanta, GA, we help victims of anesthesia errors pursue justice and compensation for their suffering.

Understanding Anesthesia Risks

All medical procedures involve some level of risk, and anesthesia is no exception. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) reports that serious complications occur in less than 0.01% of cases. However, even with advancements in modern medicine, certain risks remain, including:

• Temporary confusion or memory loss (especially in elderly patients)
• Nausea and vomiting post-surgery
• Allergic reactions to anesthesia drugs
• Breathing difficulties or reduced oxygen levels
• Low blood pressure or irregular heart rate

These risks are typically well-managed by trained anesthesiologists, and most patients recover without complications. However, when an anesthesiologist or medical professional makes an avoidable mistake, it may constitute medical malpractice.

What Constitutes an Anesthesia Error?

Anesthesia errors go beyond normal risks and occur due to negligence, misjudgment, or failure to follow safety protocols. Some of the most common anesthesia-related errors that lead to serious injury or death include:

• Dosage Mistakes: Administering too much or too little anesthesia can result in anesthesia awareness (where the patient remains conscious during surgery) or overdose, which can lead to brain damage or fatal outcomes.
• Failure to Monitor Vital Signs: An anesthesiologist must continuously monitor oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. Failure to recognize distress signs can lead to cardiac arrest, stroke, or organ failure.
• Delayed Intubation or Airway Management Errors: Improper intubation can cause oxygen deprivation, brain damage, or even wrongful death.
• Medication Errors: Administering the wrong medication or failing to account for a patient’s allergies or existing conditions can have life-threatening consequences.
• Failure to Review Patient History: Certain patients are at higher risk for complications, such as those with obesity, heart disease, or respiratory issues. Neglecting a thorough preoperative evaluation can result in preventable harm.

When Anesthesia Errors Lead to Medical Malpractice

To file a medical malpractice lawsuit, the following must be proven:

• A duty of care existed – The anesthesiologist or medical provider was responsible for the patient’s care.
• A breach of duty occurred – A preventable error or negligent act took place.
• The breach caused harm – The patient suffered severe injury, complications, or wrongful death as a direct result of the anesthesia error.
• Damages resulted – The patient experienced physical, emotional, or financial damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

Seek Legal Guidance for Anesthesia Errors

If you or a loved one has suffered due to an anesthesia-related medical mistake, you deserve answers. At Conley Griggs Partin LLP in Atlanta, GA, our experienced medical malpractice attorneys fight for the rights of victims and their families. We will investigate your case, consult with medical experts, and pursue maximum compensation for your suffering.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your anesthesia-related injury and learn how we can help you seek justice.