Kansas Pulmonary Embolism Attorneys
WHAT IS AN EMBOLUS?
An embolus is something that forms in one part of the body and travels through the blood stream to another part of the body. Most emboli are made up of blood clots, but there are other types as well, including bacteria, air, or other foreign bodies. It is possible for emboli to dissolve on their own or through drug treatment. If left untreated, however, an embolus can become lodged in a blood vessel and cause partial or complete blockage.
WHAT IS A PULMONARY EMBOLISM?
A pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage in a lung artery caused by a blood clot that has traveled to the lung from a vein in either the arm or leg. Pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that can cause permanent lung damage, low oxygen levels in the blood, and damage to other vital organs because of lack of oxygen. If left untreated due to medical negligence or misdiagnosis, a pulmonary embolism can even cause death. The National Institute of Health estimates that at least 100,000 cases of pulmonary embolism occur in the United States every year. In fact, it is the third most common cause of death in hospitalized patients.
DIAGNOSIS IS KEY
There are many diagnostic tests your doctor may run including but not limited to Echocardiogram (ECG), Electrocardiogram (EKG), CT Scan, perfusion scan, D-Dimer blood test, lung scan, chest x-ray or MRI. There are many stages at which pulmonary embolisms can be diagnosed. When signs and symptoms are neglected, misinterpreted or minimized by medical professionals as something that is less serious, it could end up being fatal for the patient.
TREATMENT
The main goals in the treatment of pulmonary embolisms are to stop the blood clot from getting bigger and to keep new clots from forming. It is important to start treatment as soon as the condition is diagnosed as any delay may have lethal consequences. Treatment may include administering blood thinners or other medication to help remove the clot or prevent the clot from growing. Surgery is also an option.
LEGAL ACTION
If you believe you or a loved one has been seriously injured because of errors or negligence by medical staff that led to the misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose pulmonary embolism, you may be entitled to damages for pain, suffering, emotional distress, medical expenses and loss of income. It can indeed be a painful and costly process to treat and survive this condition.
The experienced Kansas medical malpractice attorneys at Prochaska, Giroux & Howell understand the complexity of pulmonary embolism cases and can help you thoroughly evaluate your case and examine your legal options. We have represented and won significant damages for numerous clients who have been victims of negligence and misdiagnosis by medical professionals. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
7701 E. Kellogg Suite 415 Wichita, KS 67207-1709