The Case
A patient underwent a cesarean section to deliver her child. Following the surgery, she developed concerning symptoms that warranted further investigation.
A CT scan was performed and showed evidence of an abscess—a pocket of infection that can develop after abdominal surgery. Abscesses require prompt treatment, typically through antibiotics and sometimes surgical drainage. Left untreated, they can lead to severe complications including sepsis and tissue death.
The patient’s OB/GYN dismissed the CT findings and did not provide appropriate treatment. Over time, the infection progressed to uterine necrosis—the death of uterine tissue. This resulted in the complete loss of the patient’s fertility. She would never be able to carry another pregnancy.
The patient pursued a medical malpractice claim based on the physician’s failure to recognize and treat the abscess shown on imaging.
The Resolution
The case proceeded to trial. The jury heard evidence about the CT findings, the physician’s response, and the progression of the infection to uterine necrosis. They also heard testimony about the impact of permanent infertility on the patient’s life and future.
The jury returned a verdict of $1,500,000 in favor of the patient.
Jury verdicts reflect the community’s assessment of what happened and what the harm is worth. In this case, the jury determined that the physician’s failure to act on clear imaging evidence fell below the standard of care and that the resulting loss of fertility warranted significant compensation.
Why These Cases Matter
Post-surgical infections are serious complications that require prompt recognition and treatment. When imaging studies show evidence of infection, physicians have a duty to investigate further and provide appropriate care.
The loss of fertility is a profound, permanent injury. For patients who intended to have more children, the inability to do so affects not just their own lives but the future they envisioned for their families.
Dismissing objective evidence—such as CT findings—without adequate explanation or follow-up can constitute medical negligence. Patients trust their physicians to take their symptoms and test results seriously.
If you experienced a serious complication following surgery that was not recognized or treated appropriately, contact us to discuss your case. We handle medical malpractice cases on a contingency basis—there is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.