Wrong-site surgery is one of the most serious examples of medical malpractice. It often happens when a doctor operates at the wrong location or on the wrong side of the body, but it can also happen when they operate on the wrong patient or carry out the wrong procedure.For example, if a patient goes in for an operation on their left knee and the doctor performs the correct surgery, but on their right knee, it is wrong-site surgery. This can have a devastating impact on the patient. They did not receive the proper procedure that they needed, and they now have to recover from a second procedure, which could change the course of their life. So how can doctors avoid this type of mistake?

Marking patients in advance

There are many potential tactics, and it often comes down to communication and double-checking everything before the procedure to ensure that it is being carried out correctly. But one simple tactic that doctors will sometimes use is to mark the patient in advance.This helps on two fronts. First of all, it gives the surgeon one last confirmation that they are operating at the correct incision site. Doctors will sometimes just draw an “X” or write their initials, both of which help to confirm the site a final time before the procedure begins.Additionally, the patient can be involved in this process. Technically, it is still possible for a surgeon to make a mistake and mark the wrong location, which then leads to wrong-site surgery. But since they can consult with the patient while they do this—before the patient is under the influence of any drugs or anesthetic—the patient can inform them if a potential error is noticed.While these tactics help, wrong-site surgery still happens, and those who suffer harm must be aware of their legal options.