Surgical Injuries During Hysterectomy: Was It Malpractice?

Hysterectomy is one of the most commonly performed surgeries for women in Ohio and across the country. While it is usually safe, errors during the procedure can lead to life-changing injuries that could have been avoided with proper care. When a surgeon fails to perform the operation safely, fails to monitor for complications, or ignores warning signs during or after surgery, the consequences can be devastating.

If you believe that your injury was caused by negligence, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Buckeye Law Group helps women throughout Ohio understand their rights and seek justice after preventable surgical harm.

Common Surgical Errors During Hysterectomy

Hysterectomies involve delicate structures in the pelvis—meaning even a small mistake can cause major complications. Some of the most common negligent injuries include:

1. Bladder Injuries

Bladder perforations or lacerations may occur when the surgeon:

• Uses improper technique
• Fails to identify anatomical variations
• Works too quickly or without proper visualization

Untreated bladder injuries can lead to infections, urinary leakage, and additional surgeries.

2. Ureter Damage

The ureters are highly vulnerable during hysterectomy. Surgical negligence may cause:

• Ureter cuts or burns
• Obstruction from improper sutures
• Failure to recognize the injury before closing

Delayed diagnosis can lead to kidney damage or loss of kidney function.

3. Bowel Perforation

Unrecognized bowel injuries can result in dangerous infections, sepsis, or emergency re-operations. Many perforations occur when:

• The surgeon mishandles instruments
• Adhesions are not safely separated
• Laparoscopic tools are used incorrectly

4. Excessive Bleeding

Improper ligation of blood vessels or careless use of cautery tools can cause hemorrhage, requiring transfusions or emergency intervention.

5. Retained Surgical Items

Leaving tools, sponges, or clamps inside the body is always negligence—not a complication.

Was the Injury a Known Risk or Medical Malpractice?

Not every surgical complication is malpractice. But negligence occurs when:

• The surgeon fails to follow accepted medical standards
• The hospital provides inadequate staffing or oversight
• Post-operative symptoms are ignored
• Delays occur in diagnosing or treating complications

A key question: Would a reasonably careful surgeon have prevented the injury?
If the answer is yes, you may have a claim.

How a Lawyer Proves Malpractice in Hysterectomy Cases

To win a malpractice case, your legal team must show:

• A provider-patient relationship existed
• The surgeon breached the standard of care
• This breach directly caused your injury
• You suffered measurable harm

Evidence often includes:

• Surgical records
• Imaging results
• Pathology reports
• Hospital communications
• Expert medical testimony

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Women injured during hysterectomy may recover damages for:

• Additional medical treatment or corrective surgeries
• Long-term disability or chronic pain
• Lost wages or loss of earning ability
• Emotional trauma or diminished quality of life

Talk to the Women’s Health Malpractice Team at Buckeye Law Group

Our attorneys understand the physical and emotional toll that a surgical injury can cause. We will investigate what went wrong, consult with top medical experts, and fight to hold negligent medical providers accountable.

Contact Buckeye Law Group today for a free consultation:
https://www.buckeyeaccidentattorneys.com/#ContactUs