A retinal detachment is an acute medical emergency that requires prompt surgical intervention for functional vision to be preserved. According to a study done by the Ophthalmic Mutual Insurance Company, there has been an increase in medical malpractice claims due to negligence associated with the diagnosis and treatment of retinal detachments. A missed diagnosis is the most frequent negligence claim for this condition. A patient’s prognosis is dependent on the duration of the detachment. Left untreated, it leads to permanent vision loss. Badgley Law Group is an Orlando personal injury law firm that has handled medical malpractice cases involving the retina. Contact us to speak to a negligence attorney regarding your claim.
Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods
Various factors can contribute to a retinal detachment, such as nearsightedness, recent cataract or Lasik surgery, or a diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy. Additionally, persons with a history of retinal detachment of the fellow eye, recent or long-term trauma to the eye, or genetic factors are more likely to sustain a retinal detachment. In rare instances, a form of cancer known as a choroidal tumor may be the cause.
Retinal detachment symptoms include a decrease in visual acuity, loss of visual field, flashes of light, and a noticeable increase in floaters. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, retinal detachment is most often diagnosed in persons between the ages of 45 and 65, and males have a greater predisposition for this condition. In approximately 7% of retinal detachment cases, both eyes are affected. However, there are also cases of young adults of both sexes with this disorder. Regardless of age, the loss of vision is traumatic, having devastating effects on a patient’s quality of life.
Laser or ocular cryotherapy procedures are treatment options used to correct or prevent mild cases of retinal tearing. Surgical interventions include a suturing procedure called a scleral buckle, an injection of gas into the eye, or removing part of the vitreous in the eye, replacing it with oil or gas. Patient outcome is measured by the amount of visual loss and functional impairment.
Precipitating Factors for Medical Negligence Claims regarding Retinal Detachments are:
- The failure to diagnose due to deficiencies in conducting proper testing or a comprehensive adult eye exam.
- Poor communication with patients such as a failure to obtain an adequate medical history to identify risk factors.
- Delayed referral for treatment as early intervention is vital to the preservation of vision.
- Failure to meet clinical objectives due to inadequately performing the repair.
- Lack of patient education, such as the need to report changes in vision and other symptoms to the ophthalmologist.
- Inadequate surgical management due to a lack of follow-up with patients after having a procedure.
- Failure to follow the standard of care according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
The Badgley Law Group offers Compassionate Representation for Ophthalmologic Malpractice.
Loss of vision will irrevocably alter your life. If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical negligence causing a detached retina, contact the Badgley Law Group. Our law office will fight for fair compensation to cover medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. Our team consults with leading medical experts to investigate your case. We identify and prove the mechanism by which the physician breached the standard of care. Attorney Jeffrey Badgley is board certified as a Civil Trial Lawyer, which is the Florida Bar’s highest recognition.
Our office focuses on personal injury law, including ophthalmologic medical malpractice. We are dedicated to providing excellent service and representation of our clients.
One of the most important decisions you will make is the choice of a legal team. Contact an experienced detached retina injury lawyer at the Badgley Law Group. We are located in Orlando, Florida, and can be contacted for a free case evaluation at 407-781-0420 or online.