Experience Pain Pump Injuries in Boston?
Hire an Experienced Boston Medical Malpractice Attorney
At Pollack & Flanders, LLP, we help those who are victims of pain pump injuries. We have experience in a variety of medical malpractice cases, ranging from surgical errors and pain pump injuries to cancer misdiagnosis and birth injuries.
Pain Pumps are Often NOT the Best Form of Treatment Following Arthroscopic
Shoulder Surgery
Pain pumps are commonly used to administer pain medications such as bupivacain
and epinephrine following arthroscopic shoulder surgery. These pumps are actually
tiny catheter tubes inserted into the shoulder during surgery to deliver pain
medication to the joint following the surgery. The underlying theory behind
the pain pump is that it will periodically pump pain medication into affected
areas of the shoulder for two to three days following surgery, thereby decreasing
the patient’s post-operational pain.
However, recent studies have shown that pain pumps may actually cause more harm than relief. Pain pumps are associated with a condition known as post-arthroscopic glenohumeral chondrolysis, or PAGCL. This condition destroys the cartilage between the arm and shoulder, known as the glenohumeral joint. Once this cartilage is damaged, it is often difficult and painful to move the shoulder, resulting in decreased mobility.
Warning Signs of PAGCL
If you have recently undergone arthroscopic shoulder surgery and have used a pain pump, you may be at risk for developing PAGCL. The warning signs of this condition may include:
- Continuous shoulder pain, even when you are at rest
- Shoulder stiffness or weakness
- A decreased range of motion
- Clicking, popping or grinding in the shoulder
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact a physician to determine whether you are suffering from PAGCL. If you receive a PAGCL diagnosis, you should contact a qualified Boston medical malpractice lawyer who can assist you in recovering compensation for your injuries. At Pollack & Flanders, LLP, we are experienced personal injury attorneys who will fight to protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Boston medical malpractice attorney at our law firm today if you want a legal representative who is ready to work hard for you.