Surgery always carries some risk, but when something goes wrong due to negligence — not natural complications — you may be the victim of medical malpractice. Surgical errors can lead to serious, even life-threatening, consequences. Unfortunately, many patients don’t know what to do next or whether they even have a case.
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we help victims of medical negligence across Illinois understand their rights and hold providers accountable. If you believe something went wrong during or after surgery, here’s what you need to know — and what steps to take next.
Recognizing the Signs of Surgical Malpractice
Not every negative outcome after surgery is the result of malpractice. But if your recovery feels worse than expected — or if complications were ignored or made worse by your care team — it’s important to take a closer look.
Common signs of malpractice after surgery include:
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Unexplained infections or worsening conditions
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A surgical object (like a sponge or tool) left inside the body
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Wrong-site surgery
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Excessive pain that isn’t addressed
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Delayed diagnosis of complications like internal bleeding or organ damage
If you’ve experienced any of the above or your doctor is avoiding your questions, it may be time to investigate further.
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health comes first. If you’re in pain or something doesn’t feel right, get a second opinion right away. It’s important not only for your safety but also for documenting complications. Make sure any new medical providers understand your full surgical history so they can accurately assess your condition.
Step 2: Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of everything—from the original surgery to your follow-up visits and ongoing symptoms. Include:
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Names of surgeons, hospitals and providers involved
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Dates of treatment and hospital stays
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Prescriptions or aftercare instructions you were given
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Photos of incisions, wounds or physical symptoms
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Any written communication from medical staff
The more detailed your records, the easier it is for a legal team to evaluate whether malpractice occurred.
Step 3: Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice
Sometimes, healthcare providers or their insurance companies may approach you with a settlement or release form. Don’t sign anything before speaking to a medical malpractice attorney. These documents can limit your right to pursue legal action, even if you later discover serious harm.
Step 4: Speak to a Medical Malpractice Attorney
Medical malpractice cases in Illinois are complex. You need a legal team that understands not only the law but also the medical details of your case. An experienced attorney can help:
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Review your medical records
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Consult with expert witnesses
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Identify whether your standard of care was breached
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Determine your eligibility for damages
Illinois has strict deadlines for filing malpractice claims — known as the statute of limitations — so don’t wait too long to get legal advice.
You’re Not Alone — We Can Help
Discovering that your injury or suffering could have been avoided is heartbreaking. At the Dinizulu Law Group, we’re committed to holding negligent medical providers accountable and fighting for justice on behalf of patients like you.
If you suspect malpractice after a surgery, let us help you understand your legal options and protect your future.
Call the Dinizulu Law Group today at (312) 384-1920 for a free consultation. We’ll help you get the answers — and the justice — you deserve.
