posted August 27, 2008
I admit that I have a few phobias regarding doctors that many do not have. And I'm open to the fact that it has likely made me more cynical and critical of the medical profession in general. Frankly, for example, it has been my position for quite some time now that anyone entering the medical industry does so simply for money or prestige and not for any humanitarian interests that I can possibly identify any more. See? A horrible thing to say, I'm sure. I apologize for the generalization and for the insult.
One thing that continues to get my goat is the legal wall that keeps the general public from knowing about doctors and surgeons with poor records here and from knowing about specific, horrific events that occur from time to time in regional hospitals. Not that they are common. I just think people should know when the wrong leg is amputated or if a particular surgeon has a fatality rate that is twice as high as others around him.
I recently came in contact with an individual here in Chattanooga who claims that he underwent surgery during which he was awake the entire time. I say claim to point out it is his allegation, but I believe it occurred. Fact of the matter is, it has transformed a once vibrant, robust man into a meek, shaking, nervous individual - permanently. People who know him, just know.
The poor guy likely will never be able to prove it - as with most cases like his, he received a medication before surgery that paralyzes the body for the procedure. He was awake, but immobile, unable to alert anyone until after the horrible event was over. And by then, it was too late, of course.
I'm sure this doesn't happen often. If an anesthesiologist is doing their job and watching the heart rate, among other indicators, it is not supposed to happen, doctors will tell you. But people are not always perfect. Doctors are not always perfect. It can still happen. And I believe it did. These stories are not always societal myths. Take the time and make an effort to know your doctor and know your anesthesiologist well, especially if your procedure requires paralysis.
David Hamilton
Chattanooga
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