Nerve Damage & Medical Malpractice
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Lupetin & Unatin is a respected medical malpractice law firm based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, dedicated to representing patients and families whose lives have been forever changed by preventable medical errors.
With decades of experience, the firm has successfully handled complex cases involving nerve injuries that result in catastrophic consequences, such as permanent disability, loss of limb function, or chronic pain.
The attorneys at Lupetin & Unatin understand the profound impact these injuries have on a person’s quality of life and work tirelessly to uncover the truth, hold negligent providers accountable, and secure the compensation their clients need to move forward.
If you or a loved one have suffered nerve damage due to medical negligence or malpractice, please contact our office for a free case evaluation.
Facial Nerve Injury
A facial nerve injury refers to damage to the seventh cranial nerve, commonly known as the facial nerve. This nerve controls most of the muscles in the face and is responsible for expressions like smiling, blinking, and frowning. It also plays a role in speech, chewing, and tear and saliva production. When the facial nerve is injured, it can lead to partial or full paralysis, facial droop, involuntary muscle movements, or loss of taste on part of the tongue. The severity of the injury depends on how and where the nerve is damaged.
Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that begins at the spinal cord in the neck and extends through the shoulder, arm, and hand. When functioning properly, the brachial plexus allows for normal use of the entire arm and hand. If the brachial plexus is damaged during childbirth and the injury is severe or treatment is delayed, the child may never regain full function.
Phrenic Nerve Injury
The phrenic nerve is a critical nerve in the body that controls the diaphragm, the primary muscle used for breathing. Injury to the phrenic nerve can occur during high-risk surgeries, or if medical professionals fail to take proper precautions. Without proper function of the phrenic nerve, the diaphragm may not work correctly, leading to breathing problems or even respiratory failure in severe cases.
Paralyzed Vocal Cords
Vocal cord paralysis is a serious condition that can profoundly impact a person’s ability to speak and breathe. While it is often the result of surgical errors, it can also be caused by other forms of medical malpractice, including improper intubation, delayed diagnosis of nerve damage, or adverse effects from certain medications. In some cases, medical providers fail to recognize or address complications that lead to permanent vocal cord impairment.
Sciatic Nerve Damage Resulting From Surgical Error
Sciatic nerve injuries are relatively rare but can have devastating consequences when they do occur. Estimates suggest that nerve injuries occur in approximately 0.2% to 2% of all surgical procedures involving the pelvis and lower extremities. However, the risk varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the skill of the surgical team.
Radial Nerve Injury During Surgery
Radial nerve injuries during surgery are not very common, but they are a known risk. Research shows that about 1–3% of surgeries on the upper arm or shoulder may result in nerve damage. The chances of injury depend on factors like the complexity of the surgery and whether the patient has existing health issues, such as diabetes or nerve damage.
Femoral Nerve Injury During Surgery
At Lupetin & Unatin, we are a medical malpractice law firm with a proven track record of handling cases involving femoral nerve injuries caused by surgical negligence. We understand the life-altering impact this type of injury can have—not only on the patient but also on their family.
The Risks Of Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
Artificial disc replacement surgery is a medical procedure designed to treat chronic back or neck pain caused by degenerative disc disease. In rare cases, medical negligence or malpractice can have catastrophic results including spinal cord injuries that severely impede the patient’s mobility and quality of life.
Vagal Nerve Injury
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition that causes discomfort, inflammation, and, in severe cases, significant esophageal damage. For patients whose symptoms are not controlled by medication, surgical intervention like a Nissen Fundoplication can offer relief. However, while this procedure is often successful, it carries the risk of damage to the vagus nerve.
Foot Drop Following Spine and Nerve Procedures
Foot drop occurs due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, primarily the anterior tibialis muscle. This weakness or paralysis can be caused by damage or dysfunction of the nerves that control these muscles, particularly the peroneal nerve. Damage to this nerve can result from various conditions, including trauma, nerve compression, or medical procedures involving the spine and nerves.