Medical Malpractice and Orthopedic Injuries in the Emergency Room

Orthopedic injuries (breaks, fractures, etc) are painful and require attention so the bone heals properly. If you or loved one visited a Connecticut emergency department, and your orthopedic injury was either misdiagnosed or improperly treated, you may have a medical malpractice case if permanent injury occurred. However, because you had a serious orthopedic injury to begin with, these are very difficult medical malpractice cases to pursue.

At the Emergency Room

1. When you arrive at the ER, you will first speak to a triage nurse who will assess your injury.
2.  Your doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical exam.
3.  After you are seen by the ER doctor, he or she may order further testing: x-ray, MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, or more. One or a combination of these tests will help the treating physician either diagnose or rule out other injuries. If needed, your doctor may retake some images.
4.  If it is required, your doctor may splint or immobilize your injury.
5.  Upon discharge, the nurse will provide you with instructions for the care of your injury.
6.  If you are not happy with the diagnosis you have the right to ask for a second opinion.

After Discharge
1.  Your discharge instructions should include a follow-up with an orthopedist. Make sure you schedule that follow-up visit.

If you suspect your orthopedic injury was misdiagnosed or your injury has not healed properly, call Robert Messey, MD/JD and Gayle Sullivan, RN/JD immediately. They will begin an immediate medical and legal investigation into your case.