Medical malpractice claims arising from improper treatment of atrial fibrillation are not uncommon. Negligence on the part of the doctor can lead to stroke or death among other complications.
Atrial fibrillation is a very common abnormal heart rhythm. It is estimated that well over 2,000,000 patients in the U.S. suffer from this abnormal cardiac rhythm. Determining the type of atrial fibrillation you have and the cause is extremely important in terms of the treatment that a cardiologist may recommend. Many Americans treat their atrial fibrillation with a drug called coumadin. Coumadin, or warfarin, is prescribed to prevent the patient from developing life-threatening blood clots. Monitoring of the blood is critical so as to avoid the risk of bleeding and stroke when treating atrial fibrillation.
Various methods of treatment have been used for atrial fibrillation including, medical management, cardioversion and ablation therapy. The various risks and benefits of each must be carefully explored. Recently, a study was published about the use of robotic ablation therapy and the risks associated with this method of treatment. We have experience in litigating these complex cases.
It is the cardiologist’s duty to properly monitor a patient with atrial fibrillation and to order appropriate treatment and follow up. When a doctor does not do his job and fails to interpret results from cardiac studies accurately or fails to make sure the patient’s INR and protime levels are within therapeutic levels, the patient is put at unreasonable risk. Now, a recent study suggests that having atrial fibrillation may not be an independent risk factor for heart failure. This study is worth reading if you or a loved one has this condition. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/clc.20939/full
Visit our website for further information on atrial fibrillation or contact us to discuss your health issues.
