General Surgery Claims

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General surgery encompasses a wide range of medical procedures, both planned and emergency, performed to address various health conditions. While most surgeries are carried out with great care, mistakes or substandard practices can lead to serious, long-lasting consequences. 

If you or a loved one has suffered due to surgical negligence, you may have grounds for a medical negligence claim. At Good & Murray Smith LLP, our experienced solicitors will guide you through the process, ensuring justice and compensation for the harm you have endured.

Common Types of General Surgery Procedures

General surgery involves numerous procedures, such as:

  • Cosmetic surgery including breast augmentation or tummy tucks.
  • Gynaecological surgery such as hysterectomies and endometrial procedures.
  • Cardiac procedures like valve replacements or bypass surgeries.
  • Abdominal surgeries such as hernia repairs or appendectomies.
  • Gall bladder surgeries including cholecystectomy.
  • Colon, liver, and pancreas procedures including tumour removal.
  • Bile duct and bowel surgery.
  • Neurosurgery involving the brain or spinal cord.
  • Keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery 


These operations often come with inherent risks, but patients trust that their surgeons and medical teams will provide care to the highest standards. When this standard is not met, and errors occur, patients are entitled to pursue justice.

Common Causes of General Surgery Negligence

Surgical negligence can take many forms, including:

  • Failure to diagnose, leading to unnecessary or inappropriate surgery.
  • Errors in pre-operative assessments such as misinterpreted diagnostic tests.
  • Lack of informed consent: not clearly explaining risks or alternatives.
  • Surgical errors such as operating on the wrong body part, damaging internal organs or nerves, or leaving instruments inside the patient.
  • Anaesthetic mistakes
  • Post-surgical complications, like failing to recognise signs of infection, internal bleeding, or clotting.
  • Medication errors, e.g., prescribing incorrect doses during recovery.


Each of these failures can result in physical, emotional, and financial hardship for patients and their families.

How We Can Help

At Good & Murray Smith LLP, we offer comprehensive support to help you through the claims process. Our experienced solicitors will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Initial Case Review

We listen carefully to your story, review your medical records, and provide clear advice about your options.

Medical Record Assessment

With your permission, we will gather and analyse your medical records. Independent medical experts will review these to determine if substandard care caused your injuries.

Letter of Claim

If negligence is confirmed, we will prepare a formal letter of claim to the responsible parties. This letter outlines your case and invites settlement discussions.

Representation Throughout the Process

Whether your case is resolved through negotiations or proceeds to court, we will stand by you every step of the way.

Compensation for General Surgery Claims

Successful claims can lead to two types of damages:

  • General damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life caused by the negligence involved.
  • Special damages: Reimbursement for expenses like medical bills, lost earnings, travel costs, and ongoing care.

Legal Time Limits for General Surgery Claimsl

In Ireland, the statute of limitations for medical negligence claims is two years less one day from the date of the injury or the date you became aware that negligence occurred, if later. Minors have until two years after their 18th birthday to file a claim. Given the complexity of medical negligence cases, it’s essential to act promptly to avoid missing this critical deadline.

Why Choose Good & Murray Smith LLP for General Surgery Claims?

Deep Understanding of Negligence Cases

With decades of experience, we understand the unique challenges each case presents.

Access to Leading Medical Experts

We collaborate with top medical professionals to thoroughly investigate your case and provide strong, evidence-backed arguments.

Proven Track Record in Complex Claims

We have secured substantial compensation for clients in highly complex cases.

Compassionate Client Care

We understand the physical and emotional toll of surgical errors. Our team works with empathy and determination to ease your burden and secure the best outcome for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

General surgery focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of surgical conditions, particularly those involving the abdominal organs, such as the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. It also includes procedures related to the breast, skin, soft tissues, and hernias. The primary aim of general surgery is to improve patient health outcomes through elective procedures or emergency interventions.

In Ireland, compensation is calculated based on general and special damages. The Judicial Council's Personal Injuries Guidelines are also applied to ensure fairness and consistency in awards. However, the court (if the case is litigated) has the discretion to award compensation amounts based on the evidence tendered and other legal rules.

The amount awarded for pain and suffering varies depending on the nature and severity of the injury. Minor injuries might attract lower compensation amounts, while severe, life-changing injuries can result in significantly higher awards. The Judicial Council's guidelines provide ranges for various injuries to assist in determining the appropriate compensation.

Surgery is a medical field involving operative techniques to investigate or treat medical conditions. General surgery is a specific branch of surgery that focuses on common surgical issues, particularly those involving the abdominal organs, breast, skin, and soft tissues. General surgeons are trained to manage a wide variety of conditions and often provide emergency care.

In Ireland, the statute of limitations for making a medical negligence claim, including those related to surgery, is generally two years from the date of the injury or the date you became aware of the injury. It is vital to initiate the claim within this period to avoid losing the right to seek compensation. Consulting a solicitor promptly can help ensure all deadlines are met.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has suffered due to surgical negligence, don’t delay. Contact Good & Murray Smith LLP to discuss your case in confidence.

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For Expert Legal Advice on Medical Negligence Claims

If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, don’t delay. Good & Murray Smith LLP is here to support you. Contact us to arrange a consultation to review your case and guide you through the next steps.