Augusta Pituitary Tumor Surgery Attorneys
The pituitary is an endocrine gland located in a small cavity at the base of the brain. Pituitary tumors are abnormal growths that develop in the gland and are usually benign (non-cancerous). Nevertheless, as they grow in size the tumors can cause problems such as vision loss, double vision, drooping of the eyelids, severe headaches, and hormone imbalance which can cause lightheadedness, excessive thirst, fatigue and cold intolerance. One of the most common forms of treatment for pituitary tumors is surgical removal. Most can be removed transsphenoidally (through the sphenoid sinus cavities located behind the nose) or transcranially (through the upper part of the skull). In general, these surgeries are relatively safe when performed by experienced surgeons. For this reason, patients should always make sure their team of surgeons (surgeries are typically performed by both an otorhinolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat surgeon) and a neurosurgeon (brain surgeon) have received specialized training and perform numerous pituitary tumor surgeries each year. While most surgeons provide uncompromising care, some fall short. The attorneys at Burnside Law Firm LLP have experience representing people injured on account of surgical errors which occur during surgical removal of pituitary tumors.
Like all surgeries, pituitary tumor surgery is accompanied by the risk of complication. Because the pituitary gland is located next to the skull base, it is very important for the surgeon to maintain the proper angle of approach and an awareness of surrounding anatomy. Negligent failure to do so can result in penetration of the skull base and damage to the brain and surrounding arteries. While some injuries cannot be avoided, others occur simply because the surgeon(s) was negligent (failed to exercise that degree of skill and care generally required of surgeons under similar circumstances). Injuries which can occur include:
- Damage to the carotid arteries leading to stroke or death
- Permanent loss of vision
- Spinal fluid leak or spinal cord damage
- Infection and/or meningitis
- Brain injury or brain damage
The lawyers at Burnside Law Firm have a history of success representing people injured during surgical removal of a pituitary tumor. To learn more about filing a medical malpractice claim for such an injury, please contact a lawyer at the law firm of Burnside Law Firm LLP for a free consultation.
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