When serious medical errors lead to infections or amputations, the consequences are life-altering. At Capitelli & Wicker, we represent individuals and families in New Orleans whose lives have been upended by preventable injuries caused by negligent care. Whether due to untreated post-surgical infections, delayed diagnoses, or failure to follow sterilization protocols, these cases demand experienced legal action. We are here to help you hold medical providers accountable and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
What Our Clients Say
Infection and Amputation Lawsuits in New Orleans
Infections that spiral out of control or amputations that could have been prevented often stem from medical negligence. Whether caused by delayed treatment, improper wound care, or missed signs of sepsis, these cases reflect a breach in the standard of care that patients have every right to expect.
At Capitelli & Wicker, we’ve seen how quickly a minor complication can become catastrophic when providers don’t act. Our firm investigates how and why the breakdown in care occurred, and builds a strong case to recover full and fair compensation for our clients.
Understanding Medical Infections and Legal Accountability
Post-surgical infections and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are among the most common causes of injury in clinical settings. Some result from poor hygiene, improper sterilization, or failure to administer antibiotics. Others stem from delayed recognition of conditions like MRSA, sepsis, or necrotizing fasciitis.
If a provider failed to diagnose or treat an infection in a timely manner, or caused one through negligence, you may have a viable medical malpractice claim.
Amputation Due to Medical Negligence
Not all amputations are unavoidable. Some occur because medical staff failed to manage circulation issues, missed signs of infection, or made critical surgical errors. Common causes of preventable amputations include:
- Untreated infections or sepsis
- Delayed treatment for diabetic ulcers
- Vascular mismanagement or blood clots
- Surgical mistakes damaging limbs or nerves
Losing a limb isn’t just physical, it affects every part of a person’s life. We fight to make sure the legal system accounts for all of it: prosthetics, loss of earning capacity, long-term care, and emotional trauma.
Our New Orleans Medical Negligence Case Process
Step One: Consultation & Case Assessment
We’ll evaluate the circumstances of your infection or amputation to determine whether you have a strong legal claim.
Step Two: Investigation & Legal Strategy
Our team reviews your records, consults medical experts, and develops a customized strategy focused on uncovering how the error happened—and who’s responsible.
Step Three: Resolution & Recovery
We fight for the outcome you need, whether through settlement or litigation, so you can focus on healing and rebuilding.
Why Choose Capitelli & Wicker?
- Extensive Experience in Complex Medical Malpractice Cases
With decades of combined litigation experience, our attorneys have handled some of the most challenging and high-value medical malpractice claims in Louisiana. We understand the nuances of healthcare standards and know how to build strong cases that stand up to scrutiny. - Meticulous Case Preparation with Access to Top Medical Experts
We work closely with a network of respected physicians, specialists, and medical investigators to uncover the truth. Our team digs deep into records, procedures, and protocols to expose negligent care and support your case with credible, fact-based evidence. - Client-Centered Service from Start to Finish
At Capitelli & Wicker, we never treat you like just another case file. We take the time to understand your story, keep you informed at every stage, and ensure that your needs and concerns are at the center of our legal strategy. - Strong Reputation for Resolving Cases Inside and Outside the Courtroom
Whether through strategic negotiation or aggressive trial representation, our firm is known for delivering results. We prepare every case as if it’s going to court, because we’re ready to fight when the stakes are high. - Driven by a Commitment to Justice and Accountability
It’s not just about compensation, it’s about making sure negligent providers are held accountable. Our work helps prevent future harm by pushing for real consequences and safety reforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if an infection was caused by medical negligence?
Determining whether an infection resulted from medical negligence often requires a detailed review of your medical records and the circumstances surrounding your care. Signs that negligence may have played a role include delayed diagnosis or treatment of an infection, improper wound care, failure to maintain sterile conditions, or ignoring signs of a developing infection. If your condition worsened due to a lack of timely intervention or poor hygiene protocols, it could point to medical malpractice. An experienced attorney can work with medical experts to evaluate your case and identify whether proper standards of care were followed.
Is amputation always considered medical malpractice?
No, not all amputations are the result of medical malpractice. In some cases, amputation is a necessary and appropriate medical intervention to save a patient’s life or prevent further harm from conditions like severe infection, trauma, or poor circulation. However, if the need for amputation arose because of delayed diagnosis, surgical errors, failure to treat an infection, or other preventable medical mistakes, it may be considered malpractice. A qualified attorney can assess whether the medical provider acted negligently and if the outcome could have been avoided with proper care.
How soon should I speak with an attorney after an infection or amputation?
It’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible. Early legal guidance can help preserve critical evidence, ensure you’re meeting important deadlines, and protect your rights from the start. In medical malpractice cases, records can be lost, memories can fade, and strict time limits (called statutes of limitations) may apply. Speaking with a lawyer promptly gives you the best chance to understand your options and build a strong case if negligence played a role in your injury.
Can I still sue if the infection happened months ago?
Possibly—medical malpractice claims are subject to a statute of limitations, but that timeline doesn’t always begin on the date of the procedure. In many cases, the clock starts when the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. If your infection led to serious harm and you believe it was caused by negligent care, it’s worth speaking with an attorney, even if months have passed. A lawyer can assess whether your case still falls within the legal timeframe and help you take the next steps.
What kind of compensation can I recover in a medical malpractice claim?
You may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. This can include medical expenses, future treatment costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, and pain and suffering. In some cases, you may also recover damages for loss of enjoyment of life or punitive damages if the provider’s actions were especially reckless. Every case is different, so speaking with an attorney can help clarify what types of compensation may apply to your situation.
Who can be held responsible for a hospital-acquired infection?
Several parties could potentially be held responsible for a hospital-acquired infection, depending on the circumstances. This may include healthcare providers such as doctors, nurses, or surgeons who fail to follow proper hygiene protocols, such as handwashing or sterilization procedures. The hospital or medical facility itself could also be held liable if it failed to maintain appropriate cleanliness standards, provide necessary infection control measures, or adequately train staff. In some cases, medical equipment manufacturers could be held accountable if faulty equipment contributed to the infection.
Do I need medical records to start my case?
While you don’t necessarily need all of your medical records to start a case, they are crucial for building a strong claim. Medical records provide essential evidence of the care you received, the diagnosis, and how any negligence may have contributed to your injury. An attorney can help obtain the necessary records on your behalf, ensuring you have the information needed to assess your case and pursue the appropriate legal action. It’s best to start the process as soon as possible to preserve critical evidence.
Will my case go to trial?
Not all medical malpractice cases go to trial. In fact, many are resolved through settlement before reaching the courtroom. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial. Your attorney will work closely with you to evaluate the strength of your case and explore all options for resolution. If going to trial becomes necessary, rest assured that your legal team will be prepared to advocate aggressively for your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Start Your New Orleans Infection or Amputation Case Today
You shouldn’t have to suffer the lifelong consequences of a provider’s mistake without recourse. At Capitelli & Wicker, we’re ready to stand by your side, investigating what went wrong and fighting for every dollar you’re owed.
Call 504-582-2425 or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential consultation with a New Orleans medical malpractice lawyer today.