This is sad, but damnit, this is a KNOWN potential complication. One that was in the literature I read, and was talked to about with my doctor before I had my Hysterectomy. This lady, may God bless her, was INFORMED that this was possible. Nicking an intestine IS a potentially serious complication that DOES happen during surgery. Its a VERY well known risk, and I don’t think she should have the right to sue over it.
I knew of it, I was informed about it, and I am not at all unusual. I am certain SHE was informed as well.
This is a sad case, but doctors DO make mistakes. Horrible yes, but it does happen.
First, Winthrop IS an excellent medical center. Second, without knowimg more of the facts of the case, it’s difficult to speculate as to what exactly transpired. What’s truly troubling is that once the case is in NY’s civil justice system, it will be approximately five years before this woman will receive compensation for her injuries. Plaintiff’s attorney will take his cut right off the top. Defense attorneys will rack up billable hours. The doctors involved, even some who may not have actually seen this patient, will be drawn into the lawyers’ wide net. The Med Mal Mandela turns at its own pace and adds exponentially to the cost of everyone’s healthcare, directly and indirectly. If the government truly wants healthcare reform, I say begin with medical malpractice reform.
You don't know that. Maybe she was, maybe she wasn't. That's why they have trials, supposedly, to get at the truth.