This case involves a middle-aged male patient who was admitted for a surgical procedure on his right foot. A sterile compression dressing was applied post-operatively to the patient’s foot. While he was being monitored in the postoperative recovery room, he developed and exhibited signs of decreased blood flow to his foot, assumed to be caused by the compression dressing or some error. The patient developed ischemia to his left second toe, leading to necrosis requiring amputation. His injuries resulted in significant medical care and treatment and caused him pain, suffering, disability and disfigurement.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Do you routinely treat patients similar to the one described in the case?
2. Have you ever had a patient develop the outcome described in the case?
3. What are common complications of applying a compression dressing on a patient, as done in this case?
4. What are the signs and symptoms of a lack of circulation?
5. What are the proper follow-up steps to mitigate any further damage to the patient?
Expert Witness Response E-022988
In my practice I routinely treat patients such as the one described. I have been fortunate to not have had a patient develop this outcome in my practice, but I have seen this complication during my training. Common complications of compression dressings can can range from mild skin problems to necrosis. The most common signs and symptoms of decreased circulation are a lack of capillary refill, skin changes and pain. The appropriate steps once its determined that circulation is decreased is to loosen or change the dressings and recheck circulation.
About the author
Joseph O'Neill
Joe has extensive experience in online journalism and technical writing across a range of legal topics, including personal injury, meidcal malpractice, mass torts, consumer litigation, commercial litigation, and more. Joe spent close to six years working at Expert Institute, finishing up his role here as Director of Marketing. He has considerable knowledge across an array of legal topics pertaining to expert witnesses. Currently, Joe servces as Owner and Demand Generation Consultant at LightSail Consulting.
