Common Malpractice Errors in Gallbladder Surgery Explained
Gallbladder removal surgery (also called a “cholecystectomy”) is a common surgical procedure performed to alleviate pain and prevent complications from gallstones and diseased gallbladders. In the U.S., approximately 90% of gallbladder procedures are done using a laparoscopic method. Robotically assisted gallbladder surgeries now account for approximately 5%. In this surgery, the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver, is removed. This organ is responsible for storing bile, a substance produced by the liver to digest fats. While this surgery is generally safe, it is not without risks, particularly when the surgical team fails to properly identify the anatomy.
Mistakes in Clipping, Cutting, or Severing the Wrong Anatomical Structures: One of the most serious errors that can occur during a gallbladder removal is the accidental clipping, cutting, or severing of the wrong structures. These mistakes typically happen when there is a failure to properly identify the cystic duct, cystic artery, or the common bile duct. One study stated that misinterpretation of anatomy was the major factor cited by 92.7% of surgeons when an injury occurs. These structures are crucial for the transport of bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestines. When they are damaged, it can lead to bile leaks, infections, and liver and other organ damage, with very serious long-term health complications. These complications can lead to a significant decline in the quality of life for the patient, and, in the worst cases, may be fatal. Bile is a digestive enzyme, and if it leaks outside the structures that were intended to contain it, the bile tries to “digest” the other structures that it comes into contact with.
Frequency of Errors and Prevention: While the exact frequency of these errors is difficult to pinpoint, there are many surgeons who consider these mistakes completely preventable if only all surgeons would follow the correct surgical techniques. This includes a clear understanding of the patient’s anatomy, careful dissection and identification of the cystic duct and artery, and the use of intraoperative imaging techniques using dye to confirm the anatomy before cutting any structures.
Gallbladder Injuries in Georgia: It is difficult to find statistics on gallbladder surgery errors for a single state, and many injuries go unreported. According to the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), the frequency of such injuries remains constant in the United States. In one notable case, in 2022, a jury in Georgia awarded $10.1 million in a medical malpractice lawsuit against Wellstar Medical Group in Cobb County. During gallbladder surgery the woman’s common bile duct was misidentified and mistakenly severed during the procedure. This error led to major complications for the patient, many months in the hospital, multiple follow-up surgeries, placement of abdominal drains, feeding tubes, and lasting pain. The patient incurred over $900,000 in medical bills due to the injury, with more expected in the future.
In conclusion, while gallbladder removal surgery is done so often today that it is sometimes considered a “routine procedure,” it should never be considered “routine” because it carries risks of catastrophic injury to the patient. Proper identification of anatomy and adherence to recommended safe surgical techniques are crucial to prevent devastating consequences.
As attorneys who have represented many patients who have suffered from these errors, we understand the complexities of gallbladder surgery and the standards of care required to perform it safely.
If you would like to consult us about your gallbladder surgery complications, we look forward to speaking with you.