Brain Injury

Brain injuries can occur during surgery, even when performed by experienced surgeons. These injuries can have devastating consequences, affecting a person’s physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. The Kopec Law Firm provides you with this webpage to give an overview of brain anatomy, types of surgeries that can injure the brain, potential injuries, available treatments, prognosis, and types of medical malpractice claims. If you have been injured, you may need Baltimore brain injury lawyer Mark Kopec.

Anatomy with Baltimore Brian Injury Lawyer Mark Kopec

The brain is a complex organ responsible for controlling all bodily functions. It is divided into four main lobes:

• Frontal lobe: Responsible for personality, behavior, emotions, judgment, planning, and movement.
• Parietal lobe: Responsible for processing sensory information, such as touch, temperature, and pain.
• Temporal lobe: Responsible for hearing, memory, and language.
• Occipital lobe: Responsible for vision.

The brain is also protected by a layer of tissue called the meninges, which consists of three layers: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. The meninges protect the brain from injury and infection.

Types of Surgeries that Can Injure the Brain

A variety of surgeries can potentially injure the brain. Some of the most common include:

• Brain surgery: This includes surgeries to remove tumors, treat aneurysms, or repair traumatic brain injuries.
• Spine surgery: Surgeries on the spine can sometimes affect the brain stem, which controls vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.
• Ear surgery: Surgeries on the inner ear can damage the facial nerve, which can lead to facial paralysis.
• Dental surgery: In rare cases, dental procedures can cause brain injuries if bacteria or other foreign objects enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain.

Types of Doctors Who Perform These Surgeries

The type of doctor who performs a surgery that could potentially injure the brain depends on the specific procedure. Some of the most common types of doctors include:

• Neurosurgeons: Specialists in surgery of the nervous system, including the brain and spine.
• Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors): Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, and throat disorders.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons: Specialists in surgery of the mouth, jaw, and face.
• Spine surgeons: Specialists in surgery of the spine.

Types of Brain Injuries that Can Occur During Surgery

Brain injuries that can occur during surgery include:

• Hemorrhage: Bleeding in the brain can occur due to damage to blood vessels during surgery.
• Infection: Bacteria or other microorganisms can enter the brain during surgery, leading to infection.
• Stroke: A stroke can occur if blood flow to the brain is blocked or if a blood vessel in the brain ruptures.
• Nerve Damage: Damage to nerves in the brain can cause a variety of problems, such as paralysis, loss of sensation, or difficulty speaking or swallowing.
• Brain damage: Direct damage to brain tissue can occur during surgery, leading to a variety of cognitive and functional impairments.

Available Treatments and Prognosis

The treatment for a brain injury depends on the specific type of injury and its severity. Some common treatments include:

• Medication: Medications can be used to reduce swelling, control pain, and prevent seizures.
• Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove blood clots, repair damaged tissue, or relieve pressure on the brain.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can help people with brain injuries regain lost skills and function.

The prognosis for people with brain injuries varies depending on the severity of the injury. Some people recover fully, while others may experience permanent disabilities.

Potential Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Brian Injury Lawyer Mark Kopec

If a brain injury occurs during surgery due to medical negligence, the patient or their family may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Some common examples of medical malpractice that can lead to brain injuries include:

• Misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose or treat a condition that could lead to brain injury
• Performing surgery without obtaining informed consent
• Surgical Error: Using excessive force or improper techniques during surgery
• Failing to monitor the patient’s condition during and after surgery
• Failing to recognize and treat complications

Next Step: Call Baltimore Brain Injury Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you believe you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury due to medical malpractice, it is important to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. We can review your case and determine whether you have grounds for a lawsuit.

Visit the free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.