Can You Sue for a Botched Circumcision in Indiana?

Botched Circumcision

Circumcision is a common medical procedure, often performed on newborns, though some may undergo the procedure as an adult for various reasons. Unfortunately, doctors and other medical professionals sometimes make mistakes when performing this sensitive procedure. A botched circumcision can leave a patient distressed, miserable, and in a lot of pain. 

If you or your child is suffering from the complications associated with a botched circumcision, you deserve legal support. The Law Office of Kelley J. Johnson can provide it. We go to work every day on behalf of injured patients, fighting for the compensation they need to recover. Call today for your free consultation with a botched circumcision medical malpractice lawyer to take the first step forward in your recovery. 

What Is a Botched Circumcision?

The term botched circumcision refers to an improperly performed circumcision, leading to unintended harm to the patient. Although circumcision is a generally safe, routinely performed procedure, errors can occur when a healthcare provider fails to meet the expected standard of care. Mistakes during circumcision can include:

  • Unsterilized Instruments – Using instruments that are not properly sterilized increases the risk of infection, which can lead to complications and additional medical treatment. In severe cases, infections could lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
  • Incorrect Amount of Tissue Removal – Removing too much or too little foreskin is a common error in botched circumcisions. Removing too much tissue can cause pain, scarring, and permanent deformities, while removing too little may require additional procedures.
  • Improper Technique or Lack of Experience – Circumcisions require skill and precision, and a lack of experience or inadequate training can result in serious errors.
  • Failure to Monitor for Complications – A healthcare provider should monitor for signs of excessive bleeding, infection, or other complications after the circumcision. Failure to do so could allow a minor complication to become a more serious issue, potentially resulting in life-threatening conditions if not caught early.
  • Failure to Provide Adequate Aftercare Instructions – Aftercare is essential for proper healing. If the healthcare provider fails to give clear instructions for wound care, infection prevention, and signs of complications, the patient may not receive the necessary care to promote safe healing.

What Types of Injuries Can a Botched Circumcision Cause?

Injuries from a botched circumcision can vary widely in severity, from minor complications to permanent damage. Common injuries in botched circumcision cases include: 

  • Loss of Sensation – Nerve damage from a botched circumcision can cause a loss of sensation in the area, affecting normal physical and sexual function.
  • Amputation of Penile Tissue – In the most severe cases, an incorrect incision or improper use of instruments can lead to partial or complete amputation of penile tissue, which can have lifelong repercussions.
  • Excessive Bleeding – Poorly performed circumcisions can result in excessive bleeding, which may require additional medical intervention to control and could lead to more serious complications if not addressed immediately.
  • Infection – Insufficient sterilization or improper aftercare can cause infections, which may further impact the healing process and, in severe cases, spread to other parts of the body, posing serious health risks. 
  • Deformity or Scarring – If too much or too little foreskin is removed, the result can lead to scarring, deformities, or cosmetic issues that may impact the individual’s confidence and quality of life.

When Does a Botched Circumcision Constitute Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s actions fall below the accepted standard of care, leading to patient harm. Here are some examples of when a mistake may be medical malpractice: 

  • Failure to Obtain Informed Consent – Patients have the right to know about the risks and alternatives to any procedure. If a doctor performs a treatment without obtaining informed consent, it can affect the patient’s health and quality of care, leading to further issues. 
  • Failure to Treat – When a healthcare provider accurately diagnoses a condition but fails to properly treat it, the patient can suffer from preventable harm, potentially requiring additional medical intervention.
  • Surgical Errors – Mistakes in the operating room can lead to severe consequences, including performing surgery on the wrong body part or causing unintentional but painful damage.

Legal Options Following a Botched Circumcision

If a healthcare professional’s mistake led to you or your loved one’s injury, you could have grounds to pursue a botched circumcision medical malpractice claim against them. An attorney can help build and pursue your case on your behalf, recovering evidence that the healthcare professional deviated from the standard of care and working with medical experts as necessary to prove this point. They can also explore the following legal options on your behalf:

  • Reaching a Medical Malpractice Settlement – Negotiating for a settlement with the liable party’s insurance provider can allow you to seek compensation without the need to go to trial. 
  • Pursuing a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit – If negotiations for a fair settlement with the medical provider or their insurance company fail, your lawyer can file a lawsuit to seek the compensation you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Botched Circumcision Case?

You can pursue a medical malpractice claim to potentially recover various types of compensation to cover your losses, including:

  • Medical Expenses – You can include medical costs for additional surgeries, treatments, hospital stays, and any ongoing medical care resulting from the botched circumcision. 
  • Lost Wages – You can seek compensation for missed income if you need to take time off for recovery or caring for your injured loved one. If the injury prevents you from returning to work and affects your lifetime earning capacity, you can include this loss in your claim. 
  • Pain and Suffering – You can pursue compensation to cover your emotional trauma and lasting physical discomfort to address the intangible impacts of your suffering. 
  • Emotional Distress – You may feel increased anxiety, depression, or other lasting psychological symptoms after the botched procedure. You can seek compensation for these feelings in your claim. 

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

A botched circumcision can be a painful and life-altering event. You could be owed compensation, and the Law Office of Kelley J. Johnson can help you demand it. We have a lengthy track record of winning even the toughest medical malpractice cases, and we’re prepared to support you with the compassion and empathy you deserve during this difficult moment. Call the office today for your free consultation with a botched circumcision lawyer.