Internal Injuries & Organ Damage

Internal injuries are those affecting major organs within the thoracic or abdominal regions. Severe damage to an organ from an accident can result in organ failure, impacting one or more essential bodily functions. The extent of impact depends on the injury's severity and location.

Causes of Internal Organ Damage

Various accidents can lead to internal organ damage, many of which are preventable. Vehicle accidents, being the leading cause, top the list. Other causes include:
- Falls
- Contact sports injuries
- Electrical shock
- Surgical errors
- Medication side effects
- Drownings and near-drownings

Brain Injury

A sudden impact or jolt to the head can cause the brain to forcefully collide with the skull, leading to traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI ranges from mild concussions to severe damage resulting in permanent brain injury, paralysis, or death. Even if initial recovery seems swift, complications such as slow brain bleeding can occur, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions or permanent disability. Research shows that repeated mild concussions can result in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which is linked to dementia.

Anoxia and hypoxia, conditions where the brain is deprived of oxygen, can cause severe brain damage and impact internal organs like the heart, lungs, and liver, potentially leading to cerebral palsy.

Chest Injuries

The chest area houses crucial organs like the heart and lungs. Injuries here can result from broken ribs that puncture these organs or from severe bruising. Blood can accumulate in these areas, sometimes necessitating emergency surgery if not addressed promptly.

Abdominal Injuries

Accidents and surgical mistakes can harm vital organs such as the stomach, spleen, intestines, kidneys, and liver—each performing numerous essential functions. A punctured or ruptured intestine can lead to infections and sepsis, a severe condition that can cause shock and potentially require emergency surgery and extensive recovery.

Symptoms of Internal Injuries

Common signs of internal injuries include:
- Abdominal or localized swelling
- Discoloration or deep bruising near the affected organ
- Tightness or tingling in the injured area
- Nausea (particularly with brain injuries)
- Severe headaches or vision problems (often related to TBI)
- Lightheadedness or fainting

Legal Damages for Internal Organ Damage in Kentucky

If you or a loved one has suffered internal organ damage or wrongful death due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to claim damages, including:
- All medical expenses related to treatment and rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Future earning capacity loss if permanently disabled
- Wrongful death compensation, including survivor damages for family members

Da Vinci Robotic Surgery Injuries

The name "Da Vinci" might bring various associations to mind, but the Da Vinci robot is a cutting-edge surgical tool used since 2000 for procedures such as hysterectomies and prostatectomies, and now increasingly for cardiac valve repairs. Despite its $2 million price tag, the robot offers benefits such as smaller incisions and reduced hospital stays.

 However, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that robot-assisted hysterectomies incurred an additional $2,000 per procedure without significant clinical advantages over traditional laparoscopic methods. Concerns have arisen about potential underreporting of issues with these robotic systems to the FDA.