Medical Malpractice

The Case A patient underwent a procedure requiring anesthesia. During the procedure, an anesthesia error occurred that caused a hypoxic brain injury—damage to the brain from lack of oxygen. The patient did not survive. Anesthesia providers must carefully monitor oxygen levels, breathing, and vital signs throughout a procedure. When oxygen delivery is interrupted or inadequate,…

The Case A man presented with symptoms consistent with a stroke. Strokes are medical emergencies that require immediate diagnosis and treatment. The faster a stroke is identified and treated, the better the chance of preventing permanent brain damage. Despite the symptoms, the man was misdiagnosed and discharged from the hospital. He later suffered a disabling…

The Case A patient underwent an outpatient endoscopy—a procedure to examine the digestive tract using a camera-equipped scope. The procedure is typically performed under sedation or anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable and still. During the procedure, the patient suffered a cardiac arrest. The heart stopped beating effectively, depriving the brain and organs of oxygen.…

The Case A patient underwent gallbladder surgery, a common procedure typically performed laparoscopically. During or shortly after the operation, the surgeon suspected that the patient’s bowel had been injured. Bowel injuries can occur during abdominal surgery when surgical instruments inadvertently puncture or tear the intestine. When a surgeon suspects this type of injury, the standard…

The Case A 37-year-old woman in the late stage of pregnancy presented with hypertension and other warning signs that required immediate medical attention. These symptoms indicated potential danger to both mother and baby. Despite clear signs of fetal distress, the OB/GYN arrived hours late to provide care. The delay proved catastrophic. The baby died in…

The Case A man went to his optometrist for a routine eye exam. During the exam, the optometrist saw ruptured small blood vessels in his eyes. This finding can signal dangerously high blood pressure. The optometrist recognized the risk and sent him directly to the emergency department for immediate evaluation. At the hospital, staff took…

The Case A patient underwent a laminectomy—a surgical procedure to remove part of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. During the surgery, a hemovac drain was placed to remove fluid and blood from the surgical site. After surgery, the drain was not removed as it should have been. The…