Paralysis Due to Anesthesia Error Lawyer
There are many types of anesthesia, from local anesthesia to numb a small area to regional and general anesthesia that can impact part or all of the body. Each type of anesthesia can have risks and possible complications, but there is also a risk of errors administering any of these medications. Paralysis, both temporary and permanent, are possible from anesthesia errors, which can impact a victim’s life and livelihood.
Paralysis can be caused by either a nerve blockage from the brain to the affected muscles or damage to the brain itself. Both can occur with anesthesia errors. For brain damage, it is almost always under general anesthesia when the patient is unconscious and relying on the anesthesiologist and medical team to ensure they are getting the right dose and enough oxygen. Hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, can cause brain damage, which can impact movement. However, paralysis from nerve damage is more common and is more likely in local and regional anesthesia.
Paralysis from Anesthesia Nerve Damage
Local anesthesia is used at the dentist to numb a tooth or when you need a small area numbed to get stitches from an injury. It is also used in many cosmetic surgeries and procedures. It is administered with a needle, which is when nerve damage and paralysis can occur. An error in placement of the needle can permanently damage a nerve and paralyze the impacted muscle.
Regional anesthesia is usually administered into the spinal column. An epidural block during childbirth is a common regional anesthesia, blocking pain from the mid-torso down to limit pain. Since this injection is placed next to the spinal cord, an error in placement can damage the nerves. This can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis, the extent depending on which nerves are affected.
If you have suffered paralysis after receiving local, regional or general anesthesia, you may be a victim of an anesthesia error. Contact our team at Moriarty Injury Lawyer to discuss your case. We are medical and legal experts that may be able to help you receive compensation for your injury caused by medical malpractice.