Footdrop

[Collan]

My mother just had knee replacement surgery and a drill went through a bone. The drill bruised a vein which created a clot that cut off supply to her lower leg for 18 hours. She almost lost her lower leg if it had not been for a vascular surgeon performing a bypass to restore blood flow to the leg.. She is retaining fluids and still in critical condition. She will have foot drop. I have tried to contact several local attorneys, but the surgeon is in a very large surgical group and it is hard to find an attorney who doesn't have a conflict of interest. 1. Is this a good case? 2. How do I find a  specialist in this type of injury locally? Thank you,

[FitzJames]

I have no idea if this is a good case of surgical negligence.  The only way to know is to have another orthopedic surgeon review the entire record an offer an opinion. That law requires that in any event. Even when surgery is done "within the standard of care" bad things can happen so a scary result in not of itself evidence of malpractice.  I think the lawfirms aren't showing interest at this time is because it is too soon. If mom recovers or nearly so, the case won't have the 6 figure value necessary to make the case economically viable. The damages really must be severe and permanent to make the case work. Of course, I hope she doesn't have such damages ultimately but you have to wait and see how she is doing over the next few months. Be careful of the Statute of Limitations in your State. Could be as short as one year. If she has a strong case because her recovery is very limited, I guarantee you that those lawyers will not be so concerned about the "conflicts". If that remains a problem, look for lawyers in the next town over.