Three Elements That Must Be Present to Start an Operating Room Fire
Surgical fires can occur any time all three of the following elements are present:
Contact our surgical fire medical malpractice attorneys at Frischman & Rizza for a free case evaluation.
(412) 291-9377
Although Operating Room fires are not well publicized, the risk of a surgical fire is well known within the medical community. Despite the fact that surgical fires are completely preventable with proper care, recent statistics indicate that more than 600 Operating Room fires occur in the United States every year. Surgical fire medical malpractice often proves devastating as it can cause the patient overwhelming pain, severe and disfiguring burns, permanent scarring and, in certain cases, wrongful death.
Although a surgical fire can occur during any surgical procedure, they are most prevalent during surgeries of the head and neck. This is due to the fact that each of the three elements necessary for a fire to ignite is in close proximity. Any burn is serious, however, burns to the face and airways are especially devastating.
With the careful control of the three sides of the fire triangle (the oxygen, the fuel, and the ignition source), Operating Room fires can be prevented. In order to safely control the “fire triangle,” the surgical team which includes the surgeon, anesthesiologist and/or anesthesia staff, as well as the Operating Room nurses, must have knowledge as to the potential for a surgical fire and properly communicate to ensure the patient’s safety.
One of the worst things that a surgical patient and their loved ones can be told is that in the Operating Room the patient caught fire during surgery. Surgical fires are caused by medical negligence and are almost always preventable. A burn injury can cause painful, permanent injuries and even death. If you or a loved one has been injured by a fire in the OR, contact our experienced surgical fire attorneys today for a free case evaluation.
7300 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15208
Phone: (412) 291-9377
201 Basin St Unit #8, Williamsport, PA 17701
Phone: (570) 605-4126
