You expected a smooth recovery. Instead, something felt wrong, such as pain that didn’t go away, an infection that worsened, or complications your doctor never mentioned. If you’ve suffered harm after a “minimally invasive” procedure, you’re not alone. Laparoscopic surgeries are common, but errors can and do happen. When they do, the consequences can be life-changing.
At Poulos & Coates, we understand how devastating these mistakes can be. If you’re wondering whether you have a laparoscopic surgery malpractice claim in New Mexico, this post will walk you through what went wrong, why it matters, and how you can begin to take back control.
If you have questions about your surgery, don’t navigate it alone. Call us today at 575-523-4444 to get some answers from a lawyer at no cost to you.
When a Minimally Invasive Surgery Causes Major Harm
Laparoscopic, or “keyhole,” surgery is often marketed as safer and faster than traditional open procedures. It uses small incisions, specialized instruments, and a camera to allow surgeons to operate with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue. Standard laparoscopic procedures include gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, appendectomies, and gynecological surgeries.
While many of these procedures go as planned, some do not. When a surgeon makes a mistake, such as perforating an organ, failing to notice internal bleeding, or misusing equipment, the damage may not be immediately apparent. That delay in diagnosis and treatment can make a bad situation worse.
Laparoscopic surgeries are complex, and they demand focus, precision, and proper post-operative care. When any part of that process fails, the patient suffers the consequences.
What Is a Bowel Perforation Surgical Error?
One of the most dangerous complications in laparoscopy is a bowel perforation surgical error. This occurs when the surgeon accidentally punctures or cuts the intestines, allowing harmful bacteria to leak into the abdominal cavity.
Left undiagnosed, a bowel perforation can lead to:
- Sepsis, a life-threatening infection;
- Peritonitis, or inflammation of the abdominal lining;
- Multiple surgeries to repair internal damage; and
- Organ failure or death in extreme cases.
Other common laparoscopic injuries include:
- Damage to the bladder, liver, or blood vessels;
- Uncontrolled internal bleeding;
- Infection at the surgical site;
- Hernia at the incision site; and
- Retained surgical instruments.
These injuries are not consistently recognized right away. Patients may be discharged home while still experiencing symptoms, often brushed off as “normal post-op pain.” But when that pain worsens, or new symptoms emerge, emergency care is usually needed.
What to Know About a Laparoscopy Error Lawsuit in NM
If you’re considering a laparoscopy error lawsuit in NM, the first step is understanding whether your experience meets the legal definition of medical malpractice.
In New Mexico, laparoscopic surgery malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care and that failure causes harm. In the context of laparoscopic surgery, this might involve:
- Using excessive force or improper technique,
- Failing to recognize and correct a complication during surgery,
- Ignoring symptoms of infection or perforation after surgery,
- Discharging a patient without proper evaluation, and
- Failing to communicate surgical risks or obtain informed consent.
To succeed in a malpractice claim, you’ll need to show:
- A doctor-patient relationship existed;
- The provider acted negligently;
- That negligence directly caused your injury; and
- You suffered measurable damages—physical, emotional, or financial.
Every case is unique. At Poulos & Coates, we conduct a thorough investigation of your medical records with the help of our in-house medical doctor and nurse. That allows us to quickly identify whether a preventable surgical error occurred and whether legal action is justified.
What Goes into a Laparoscopic Malpractice Settlement
If your case qualifies for malpractice, you may be entitled to a laparoscopic malpractice settlement. These settlements can help compensate you for the losses you’ve experienced as a result of the provider’s negligence.
Potential damages in a laparoscopic error case may include:
- Medical expenses—including hospital stays, reoperations, and medications;
- Future treatment needs—such as long-term rehabilitation or home care;
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential—if you’re unable to return to work;
- Pain and suffering—including chronic pain or reduced quality of life;
- Emotional distress—such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD; and
- Loss of enjoyment of life—if injuries limit your independence.
There’s no standard payout for surgical malpractice. The value of your case depends on the severity of the injury, the clarity of the surgeon’s error, and the long-term impact on your life.
While some settlements may be modest, others, especially those involving permanent disability or wrongful death, may result in significant compensation.
At Poulos & Coates, we take settlement evaluation seriously. We build every case with a trial mindset, and we’re prepared to fight for the full value of what you’ve lost.
How Poulos & Coates Helps You Take Back Control
After a medical injury, it’s common to feel powerless. You trusted your surgeon, your hospital, and your care team, and now you’re left picking up the pieces.
We’re here to change that.
At Poulos & Coates, we’re not a general personal injury firm. We focus only on medical malpractice in New Mexico. That means we have the tools, knowledge, and experience to dig into the most complex medical errors and hold providers accountable.
Our team includes:
- An in-house medical doctor who evaluates every case;
- A registered nurse who helps us understand injuries in real time;
- Trial attorneys who prepare every case for court, not just quick settlement; and
- A deep understanding of New Mexico’s legal system, timelines, and medical standards.
From your first consultation, our goal is simple: to give you clarity, support, and a path forward.
You don’t have to prove malpractice on your own. That’s our job. We’ll gather records, consult with experts, and build a case that reflects the full scope of your experience.
You Deserve Answers. We’re Here to Help.
If your laparoscopic surgery left you with unexpected pain, complications, or long-term damage, it’s time to get the answers you deserve. A bad outcome doesn’t always mean malpractice, but when a surgeon’s mistake leads to preventable harm, you have the right to ask why.
At Poulos & Coates, we believe patients should never be left in the dark after a surgical error. We’ll listen to your story, review your case with medical precision, and guide you through your legal options with compassion and honesty.
Contact us online or call us today at 575-523-4444 to schedule a consultation at no cost to you.
You’ve already been through enough. Let us help you take the next step.