Negligently Performed Back or Neck Surgery Due to Lack of Training

Unqualified Doctors Performing Spine Surgery

If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries as a result of medical negligence during a back surgery or neck surgery performed by a medical provider who you suspect did not meet the proper qualifications, call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. to discuss the potential for a medical malpractice claim today at (713) 932-0777.

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc is a common injury to the soft material between the vertebrae in the spine that people may suffer due to many different types of injuries.  Discs in the spine are a form of padding between the vertebrae that are comprised of a soft gel-like center with an outer protective layer. If the disc is compressed, the center can push out towards the protective layer resulting in a protrusion or bulge. If the outer layer is pierced, allowing the center to extrude out of the disc, this is a herniation.

Herniated disks can cause nerve root compression due to the extruding material and/or due to swelling of the soft tissue around the disk. When you suffer from nerve root compression, this can be extremely painful and even result in radiating pains along the nerve that is encroached by the disc.

Botched Discectomy Surgery

A discectomy is a surgical procedure that aims to provide relief from chronic pain caused by a herniated or bulging disc. It is a relatively routine procedure for a qualified surgeon. The procedure is aimed at removing intrusive herniated disc material to relieve pressure on the abutting nerve. Unfortunately, some pain management doctors who are simply not qualified to do this procedure are doing it anyway.  This can result in a serious surgical error and accidental damage to the nerve, tissues, or the protective sheath around the spine.

Who Typically Performs a Discectomy?

A licensed neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon can perform surgery on your spine. Before undergoing any serious surgery, you should always consult a properly trained medical professional. Spine surgeons will seek specialized training to be able to perform a discectomy, so always make sure your doctor is properly qualified before undergoing surgery. A discectomy is a relatively common procedure; however, when performed negligently, the damage done can be permanently life-threatening.

What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?

Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a term used to describe a series of pain and symptoms one may develop if they have ineffective back surgery. Symptoms associated with a failed discectomy include:

• Back spasms
• New pain in a different location
• Numbness or pain radiating throughout the back into the legs
• Restricted mobility

Call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C.

Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., provides free consultations to those who have been injured due to the negligence of another party. Medical professionals who operate on individuals without the proper training are committing medical malpractice and should be held liable for the serious injuries associated with their actions. Call (713) 932-0777 to learn more about your rights.