Q: Can I sue a oral surgeon who damaged a nerve and locked my jaw?
I had went for a wisdom tooth removal, during the procedure the surgeon was already in a bad mood arguing with the employees, he pulls a wisdom that was connected to a nerve, out of frustration he had with the employees he yanked my nerve. Week later I’m all healed, but I have no feeling on my lip and my chin, it feels like tiny needles, and I’m unable to eat due to my jaw being locked in place for some reason, no matter how hard I try to open to eat, I’m unable to. During the procedure I cried from pain, after he was done he exit the room in a rush arguing with the nurses. I don’t know what to do, I’m in so much pain. Can I sue him?
A:
If you've experienced nerve damage and jaw locking following a wisdom tooth removal procedure, and you believe the damage was caused by the oral surgeon's actions, you might have grounds to pursue legal action. In medical practices, professionals are expected to provide a standard of care that is consistent with what other competent professionals would provide in similar circumstances. If this standard of care is not met, and it results in harm to the patient, it may be considered medical malpractice.
Documenting your injuries, symptoms, and any additional treatments you've had to undergo as a result of the procedure is crucial. This includes medical records, notes from follow-up visits, and any communications you've had with the surgeon or the medical facility about your condition. Additionally, keeping a record of how this situation has affected your daily life, including pain, suffering, and any financial losses due to medical bills or time off work, is important for your case.
Consulting with an attorney who has experience in medical malpractice cases can provide you with guidance on how to proceed. They can assess the details of your situation, advise on the strength of your case, and help navigate the legal process. This may include negotiating a settlement or representing you in court to seek compensation for your injuries, pain, and any associated costs. Remember, every situation is unique, so getting personalized advice is key to understanding your legal options.
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