Causes of Sepsis
Few medical mistakes have such drastic consequences as those that contribute to sepsis. Also known as blood poisoning, sepsis occurs when a patient’s immune system recognizes bacteria in the bloodstream. In order to fight this infection, the body undergoes a severe response. Known as systemic inflammatory response syndrome, the body creates inflammation across each of the major organ systems. The development of increased heart rate, fever, and body temperature changes are all a result of this response to sepsis.
For a free consultation regarding your legal options if you have been harmed as a result of a doctor’s negligence, contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., by calling 215-238-1130 today.
Medical Malpractice and Sepsis
Generally speaking, the body does a fairly good job of judging what is considered healthy and unhealthy. This means that blood can become oxygenated with help from the respiratory system, while the circulatory system is also closed off from bile tracts and other damaging influences. Without serious disease, condition, or injury, the body will generally preserve these healthy distinctions. With this in mind, the following are potential causes of sepsis:
- Introduction of septic blood or tissue into a patient
- Use of unclean surgical instruments
- Surgical mistakes, breaching blood vessels
- Infections left untreated
When a patient develops sepsis shortly after surgery, these mistakes on the part of a surgeon can have truly dire consequences. Not only does the body throw itself into an extreme state of inflammation, but the resulting damages to bodily tissue can cause organ failure and even drive the patient into a coma.
Contact Us
There may be legal options available for you if you have suffered because of a surgeon or other healthcare provider’s mistreatment. For more information about seeking justice and fair compensation, contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 215-238-1130. Let our compassionate legal advisors assist you today.