Misdiagnosed Aortic Aneurysm
What You Need to Know – and What You Can Do
An aortic aneurysm is a dangerous bulge or swelling in the aorta, the body’s largest artery. If it tears (called a dissection) or ruptures, it can cause massive internal bleeding—and death—within minutes. One of the things that makes an aortic aneurysm so dangerous is that many patients never know they have one.
In Illinois emergency rooms, many patients with aortic aneurysms are overlooked or misdiagnosed. Symptoms like back or belly pain, nausea, or chest discomfort are often mistaken for kidney stones or muscle strain. Studies show that up to 60% of ruptured aneurysms are missed during the first medical visit. This delay can be fatal.
Doctors are trained to spot red flags and order tests like CTA scans and MRIs. When they don’t—and a patient dies or suffers harm—it may be a case of medical negligence. Illinois law requires that hospitals and doctors must follow the standard of care. If they don’t, families can pursue justice.
Successful cases often rely on expert medical testimony to show that an earlier diagnosis and treatment should have been provided and it would have changed the outcome. Regrettably, there are many Chicago area cases where that is exactly what the jury found.
If you or a loved one were harmed due to a delayed aneurysm diagnosis, contact The Law Office of Jeffrey Friedman, P.C. at 312-357-1431 for a free consultation. We help patients and families in cases of medical malpractice—and we’re here to fight for you.
Free Attorney Consultation