Botched Abdominal Surgeries Lead to Lifelong GI Tract Issues

 Posted on November 19, 2025 in Medical Malpractice

Most abdominal surgery procedures go as planned. However, when something goes wrong, you could develop lifelong problems with your gastrointestinal tract. These issues can affect your diet, comfort, and daily routine. When someone on the medical team who performed the surgery is at fault, you can hold them legally liable through a surgical malpractice claim. If you are dealing with serious complications, our Chicago, IL medical malpractice lawyers can help you understand your legal options.

What GI Tract Problems Can Happen After a Surgical Mistake?

Errors during surgery can damage internal organs or surrounding tissue. When this occurs, you may suffer long-term complications. Chronic bowel obstruction is one of the most common problems. This happens when scar tissue or an accidental injury blocks part of your intestines. Infections or abscesses can also develop.

Some patients struggle with chronic abdominal pain, digestive problems, or malabsorption. Others develop adhesions, which cause the intestines to stick together and create ongoing discomfort. These issues do not always appear right after surgery. Some show up months or years later. If new symptoms appear after an abdominal procedure, you should get medical care as soon as possible.

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-212, you have a limited amount of time to bring a malpractice claim. Taking action as soon as possible is important. Your attorney can review your medical records, speak with experts, and determine whether the complications you are experiencing were caused by a preventable surgical error.

Can You Sue an Illinois Surgeon for GI Complications After Surgery?

You may file a medical malpractice lawsuit if the surgeon failed to meet the acceptable standard of care. This means the surgeon acted in a way that a reasonably careful professional would not have. You must also show that this mistake caused your injury. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-622, Illinois requires a certificate of merit. This document states that a medical professional reviewed your case and believes the claim has a valid basis.

Not every complication is malpractice. However, preventable mistakes such as cutting in the wrong location, failing to control bleeding, or leaving a foreign object inside the body fall outside normal surgical risk. These errors can support a malpractice claim.

What Evidence Helps Prove Abdominal Surgery Was Botched?

Strong evidence can show that negligence occurred and that it caused your GI problems. Some examples of useful evidence in such cases include:

• Operation reports from the day of the surgery

• Imaging studies that reveal internal injuries or blockages

• Notes from follow-up visits or emergency treatment

• Written opinions from specialists or surgeons who reviewed your case

• Medical records that document symptoms and complications over time

You also have the right to request your hospital records under 210 ILCS 85/6.17, which helps you and your attorney understand exactly what happened during and after the procedure.

What Compensation Can You Get for Lifelong GI Problems?

You may recover compensation for medical bills, future treatment, rehabilitation, and any long-term procedures you may need. If your condition affects your ability to work, you could also seek damages for lost income or reduced earning ability. You may even be able to claim compensation for the daily disruptions that GI issues cause. This illness often leads to permanent challenges. You may need to adjust how you eat, take daily medication, and avoid certain activities. Understanding the full impact of the injury helps your attorney measure the value of your claim.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With a Chicago, IL Medical Malpractice Attorney Today

If you are suffering from a botched abdominal surgery, you need an experienced legal team. Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, LLC has won multi-million dollar settlements for clients who suffered injuries due to medical malpractice, and you deserve the same level of dedicated representation. Medical malpractice cases are known for being complex, and proving negligence is a critical part of the process.

Reach out today at 312-605-8800 to schedule your free consultation with our Chicago, IL medical malpractice lawyers.