Understanding Postoperative Bleeding

A successful surgery gives every patient a tremendous sigh of relief. Although it typically marks the start of a healthy recovery, some patients suffer from postoperative complications caused by the negligence or carelessness of surgeons. Postoperative bleeding is a particularly devastating complication that impacts thousands of patients each year. 

Bleeding After Surgery

Physicians and nurses are responsible for monitoring patients after a procedure for any type of surgical complication, particularly symptoms of postoperative internal bleeding, also referred to as postoperative hemorrhage. Postoperative hemorrhage may be caused by:

• Perforations or cuts made to organs or vessels located next to the site of the surgery
• Failure to properly close the surgical site or wound with stitches or staples
• Faulty stitches or staples used to close wounds
• Blood failing to clot after surgery, known as secondary hemorrhaging

Symptoms of Postoperative Bleeding

Some symptoms of postoperative hemorrhages do not set in immediately after surgery and may take several hours or even days to present. This is why post-operative monitoring by physicians and nursing staff is particularly important. Some symptoms of internal bleeding after surgery include:

• Blurred vision
• Changes in blood pressure or heart rate
• Pale, clammy skin
• Pain & fatigue
• Changes in mental status
• Bleeding/oozing near the surgical site
• Swelling/bruising near the surgical site
• Difficulty breathing

Results of Postoperative Bleeding

Blood loss is a serious condition with wide-reaching consequences. Much like blood loss during surgery, bleeding after surgery may lead to permanent organ damage, complete organ failure or even death. These are life-altering complications, so it is imperative that patients report their symptoms to their doctor as soon as they present. 

Postoperative Bleeding Lawsuits

Although some postoperative bleeding causes are impossible to predict, many are caused by the negligence of the surgeon or post-operative care team. Surgeons are responsible for checking their own work and making any necessary corrections prior to closing up the patient. Nurses and doctors responsible for monitoring patients after surgery must also be aware of the signs and symptoms of postoperative bleeding and treat the bleeding in a timely manner.

Their carelessness is considered a type of medical malpractice and may entitle victims to significant compensation for their pain and suffering. An experienced medical malpractice attorney knows the signs of postoperative bleeding and will be able to build a qualified case on your behalf.