Misinterpretation of CT or MRI Scans

Accurate interpretation of diagnostic imaging is a fundamental component of modern medical care, and when radiologists or other healthcare professionals fail to correctly interpret critical studies, the consequences can be profound. Misinterpretation of CT or MRI scans frequently leads to delayed diagnoses, inappropriate treatment, or failure to identify conditions requiring urgent attention. When such errors jeopardize a patient’s well-being, they often constitute grounds for pursuing a medical malpractice claim. If you or a family member suffered harm because of the misinterpretation of CT or MRI scans, it is important to understand your options, and you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, our seasoned Syracuse medical malpractice attorneys understand the complexities of radiology malpractice claims, and if we represent you, we will diligently pursue the compensation you deserve. We frequently advocate for victims of malpractice in Syracuse, Rochester, and across Upstate New York.

CT and MRI scans are designed to detect a wide variety of conditions, including traumatic injuries, cancers, strokes, infections, and organ abnormalities. When properly interpreted, they guide physicians toward appropriate and timely treatment. However, when findings are overlooked, underestimated, or misattributed, the patient may suffer severe harm. Misinterpretation of CT or MRI scans can delay the diagnosis of a life-threatening condition such as internal bleeding, a tumor that requires immediate intervention, or a spinal cord injury that demands rapid stabilization. It may also result in unnecessary procedures, the failure to administer critical medication, or the discharge of a patient who requires immediate monitoring. These errors undermine the purpose of diagnostic imaging and expose patients to avoidable complications, prolonged illness, and permanent disability. As a result, the misinterpretation of CT or MRI scans is not merely a technical oversight but a breach of the responsibility physicians owe to the individuals who rely on them for accurate and competent care.

A patient seeking to recover damages for injuries arising from misinterpretation of CT or MRI scans will typically pursue a medical malpractice claim. In New York, a medical malpractice claim is usually grounded in the same principles that govern general negligence actions, but the standard applied to healthcare providers is shaped by the expectations of the medical profession. To prevail, a plaintiff must first demonstrate that the defendant owed a duty of care. In medical settings, this duty arises automatically from the provider–patient relationship and obligates the provider to deliver treatment consistent with the accepted standard of care. The plaintiff must then prove that the defendant breached this duty by failing to interpret imaging in a manner consistent with competent practitioners in the same specialty. Demonstrating this breach almost always requires expert testimony, since juries typically need guidance to understand how the imaging should have been interpreted and why the failure to do so constituted a deviation from accepted practice.

In addition to showing duty and breach, the plaintiff must establish that the misinterpretation of imaging was the actual and legal cause of their injuries. This means proving that the defendant’s error directly led to a worsened condition, unnecessary treatment, delayed intervention, or other measurable harm.

Expert witnesses frequently play a critical role in demonstrating causation by explaining how an accurate interpretation would have changed the course of care. Finally, the plaintiff must demonstrate that they sustained damages as a result of the error. Under New York law, recoverable damages include medical expenses, lost income, diminished earning capacity, and other economic losses. Plaintiffs may also recover compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases where the provider’s negligence results in death, the patient’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim seeking damages for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and related losses.

Errors in diagnostic imaging can have life-altering consequences, particularly when they lead to misinterpretation of CT or MRI scans and prevent a patient from receiving the treatment they urgently need. If you or a loved one were harmed because a radiologist or physician failed to accurately interpret your imaging studies, it is important to consult an attorney who can help you evaluate your legal options. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Personal Injury Lawyers, our trusted Syracuse medical malpractice attorneys are committed advocates for individuals harmed by negligent medical care. If we represent you, we will work diligently to pursue the maximum compensation available for your losses. We regularly represent clients in medical malpractice matters throughout Syracuse, Rochester, and Upstate New York. You can contact us for a free and confidential consultation using our online form or by calling 833-200-2000.