Robotic-Assisted Hysterectomy Results in Postoperative Infection

ByMichael Talve, CEO

|

Updated onJune 28, 2017

Robotic-Assisted Hysterectomy Results in Postoperative Infection

This case involves a fifty-eight-year-old female patient who presented to her OBGYN complaining of post-menopausal bleeding. The patient underwent a failed dilation and curettage by a previous physician who told her that she had a thickened endometrial stripe. The patient underwent a da Vinci robotic-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for the treatment of her symptoms. Subsequently, the patient developed a severe iatrogenic infection and proximate non-healing wound from the surgical site. At the time of the patient’s first postoperative follow-up visit, the surgical wound was malodorous and purulent, which was indicative of abscess formation. The patient was sent away after this visit without any blood work ordered, or any antibiotics prescribed. As a result, the patient required wound vac treatment for approximately five weeks and nearly six months of intricate wound dressing treatment to finally close the primary wound.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. What is the standard of care in treating an abdominal abscess once identified?

Expert Witness Response E-000051

inline imageAntibiotic therapy involves the administration of parenteral empirical antibiotics. It should be initiated before abscess drainage and concluded when all systemic signs of sepsis have resolved. Because abscess fluid usually contains a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic organisms, initial empiric therapy must be directed against both types of microbes. This may be accomplished with antibiotic combination therapy or with broad-spectrum, single-agent therapy. Specific therapy is then guided by the results of cultures retrieved from the abscess.

About the author

Michael Talve, CEO

Michael Talve, CEO

Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.

Find an expert witness near you

What State is your case in?

What party are you representing?