Stewart Tilghman Fox Bianchi & Cain, P.A. is currently investigating a heartbreaking case involving a surgical fire that resulted in the death of our client’s spouse. This devastating incident occurred when the patient’s airway caught fire during a laser-based surgical procedure. Our preliminary findings indicate that this tragedy was entirely preventable and was caused by multiple failures on the part of the hospital and surgical team.
What Happened?
During the procedure, the surgical team used a laser in close proximity to the patient’s airway while oxygen was being administered at an elevated concentration. Tragically, a fire ignited, leading to catastrophic injuries.
Our investigation has uncovered several critical errors, including:
- The hospital’s failure to ensure the use of proper equipment designed to prevent surgical fires.
- The hospital’s failure to follow its own policy regarding the use of a firesafe endotracheal tube.
- A lack of communication among doctors and medical staff regarding the oxygen levels.
These failures reflect a disturbing level of negligence that ultimately cost a life. Our firm is dedicated to uncovering the full scope of responsibility and ensuring those at fault are held accountable.
Understanding Surgical Fires
Surgical fires, though rare, are among the most catastrophic events that can occur in an operating room. Though there isn’t a national repository that collects data on surgical fires, the ECRI estimates that 90 to 100 surgical fires occur each year in the United States. These fires can cause severe burns, permanent disfigurement, and, in the most tragic cases, death.
Surgical fires occur when the three components of the fire triangle—an oxidizer (oxygen or nitrous oxide), an ignition source (laser or electrocautery device), and fuel (such as surgical drapes, alcohol-based prep solutions, or endotracheal tubes)—come together in the right conditions. In most cases, surgical fires can be prevented with proper protocols and communication among medical staff.
Preventing Surgical Fires
Hospitals and surgical teams have a responsibility to implement strict safety measures to prevent surgical fires.
Best practices include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Proper Oxygen Management: Reducing oxygen concentration during laser or electrocautery procedures and using room air or the lowest necessary oxygen levels.
- Use of Fire-Resistant Equipment: Utilizing firesafe endotracheal tubes when operating near the airway to minimize fire risk.
- Clear Communication: Ensuring that all members of the surgical team are aware of oxygen levels and the presence of ignition sources.
- Fire Risk Assessment: Conducting a thorough risk assessment before surgery, particularly in cases where ignition sources will be used.
- Strict Adherence to Hospital Protocols: Following established policies and best practices for fire prevention.
Seeking Justice for Victims
When hospitals and healthcare providers fail to follow safety protocols and policies, patients’ lives are put at risk. Our medical malpractice law firm is committed to pursuing justice for our client and ensuring that similar tragedies do not happen in the future. If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical malpractice, contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and seek justice on your behalf.