Pulmonary Embolism (PE) is a serious medical condition characterized by a blood clot obstructing an artery in the lung. As such, patients may be eligible to sue if they have suffered from serious injury or death due to a healthcare provider’s negligence in treating this condition promptly.
The blood clots typically originate in a deep vein in the leg, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), before traveling to the lungs. By impeding blood flow to the lungs, it poses a significant threat to life. In the US alone, PE causes 100,000 deaths annually, with a notably higher incidence in males than females. The key to reducing mortality rates lies in swift and appropriate treatment.
Given the potential for devastating outcomes, a patient or a loved one can file a medical malpractice lawsuit and seek justice for themselves with the help of an experienced medical malpractice lawyer. With their expertise, victims may recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
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Warning Signs and Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolisms
Shortness of breath and chest pain are often the primary indicators of PE. These symptoms typically worsen during physical exertion or deep breathing. Beyond the initial signs, individuals may experience the following:
- Fast breathing
- Wheezing
- Cough with or without bloody mucus.
- Pale, clammy, or bluish skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Excessive sweating
- Feeling anxious, lightheaded, faint, or passing out.
If you or someone nearby exhibits symptoms of pulmonary embolism, seek immediate medical care. While serious, PE is very treatable when addressed promptly. Quick action can save lives, so don't hesitate to contact emergency services or go to a hospital immediately if you suspect PE.
How is Pulmonary Embolism Diagnosed?
The diagnostic process typically begins with thoroughly evaluating the patient's medical history and a physical examination. Following this initial assessment, medical professionals may utilize a range of sophisticated diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of PE and assess its severity. Tests used to look for a PE may include:
| Diagnostic Test | Description |
| Chest X-ray | Provides images of the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels to assess size, shape, and location. |
| Ventilation-perfusion scan (V/Q scan) | Uses radioactive substances to evaluate air movement and blood flow in the lungs. |
| Pulmonary angiogram | X-ray imaging of blood vessels using injected contrast dye to detect aneurysms, stenosis, or blockages. |
| Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) | Detailed X-ray imaging of the body, often with contrast, to enhance visualization of lung blood vessels. |
| Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) | Creates detailed body images using magnetic fields and radio waves. |
| Duplex ultrasound (US) | Uses sound waves to assess blood flow and vessel structure in the legs, where clots often originate. |
| Lab tests | Blood tests to check clotting status, genetic factors, and oxygen levels. |
| Electrocardiogram (EKG) | Measures and records the heart's electrical activity to evaluate its function. |
The selection and combination of these diagnostic tests are tailored to each patient's specific situation, symptoms, and risk factors. Healthcare providers carefully consider which tests are most appropriate and likely to yield the most accurate results.
If you suspect your healthcare provider failed to conduct necessary tests or delayed diagnosis, leading to a worsened condition, seeking a second medical opinion may be advisable. However, if medical negligence is involved, consulting with a medical malpractice attorney can guide your legal options.
Consequences of Untreated Pulmonary Embolisms
When healthcare providers fail to recognize or promptly address PE due to negligence, the consequences can lead to several complications that significantly impact a patient's health and quality of life, such as:
- Cardiac arrest, which occurs when your heart suddenly stops beating.
- Cardiac arrhythmia, an irregular heart rhythm.
- Pleural effusion, a fluid buildup in the membrane around your lungs.
- Pulmonary hypertension, high blood pressure in your lungs.
- Pulmonary infarction, which occurs when lung tissue dies.
These complications not only worsen the patient's suffering but can also result in substantial medical expenses, prolonged recovery periods, and long-term health issues. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of untreated PE can be devastating for patients and their families.
Our experienced medical malpractice attorneys can provide valuable guidance on your legal rights and potential avenues for recovering damages.
Treatment Options and Cost of Pulmonary Embolism
The cure for a pulmonary embolism focuses on keeping the blood clot from getting bigger and preventing new clots from forming. Here are the common treatment choices that medical professionals utilize for patients with PE:
- Anticoagulants
- Fibrinolytic therapy
- Vena cava filter
- Pulmonary embolectomy
- Percutaneous thrombectomy
Some of these treatments can be particularly costly, placing a significant financial burden on patients and their families. The costs often range from $15,000 to $20,000. This expense is further compounded by the likelihood of hospital readmission.
In these instances, affected individuals may have valid grounds for seeking compensation, not just reimbursement for medical expenditures but also compensation for non-monetary damages. Such damages may include the physical and psychological toll resulting from diagnostic failures, delays, or inadequate management of pulmonary embolism.
Establishing a Medical Malpractice Claim
An initial investigation is required before establishing a lawsuit. During the investigation, the medical malpractice experts aim to prove the following elements:
| 1. Duty of Care – Was there an appropriate doctor-patient relationship? |
| 2. Breach of Duty – Did your doctor fail to uphold their legally sworn responsibilities? |
| 3. Causation – Did your doctor’s mistakes directly cause you suffering/injury? |
| 4. Damages – What did these mistakes cost you (medically, financially, emotionally, etc.)? |
Aside from proving these elements, your medical malpractice lawyer can gather evidence, officially file your case, and negotiate for your compensation.
Questions about Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim?
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Speak to a Pulmonary Embolism Lawyer Today
At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances.
We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.
