Medical Malpractice / Wrongful Death
An 81-year-old woman underwent an oral surgical procedure. Because of her medical history, the lawsuit alleged that she faced an increased risk of complications from the sedation used during the procedure.
The case alleged that the providers failed to adequately evaluate those risks, develop an appropriate sedation plan, continuously monitor her respiratory status and level of consciousness, and properly prepare for a medical emergency. During the procedure, she suffered a catastrophic cardiac event due to oxygen deprivation and died.
D’Amico Pettinicchi pursued claims against the individual healthcare providers and the corporate entities behind the healthcare practice. The complex litigation required extensive analysis of the patient’s medical history, medication use, sedation practices, monitoring records, emergency preparedness, the qualifications and oversight of those involved in her treatment, and the relationship between the healthcare providers and the parent corporation. The firm also investigated broader issues concerning the supervision and operation of the medical practice and whether warning signs concerning patient safety had been appropriately addressed.
We ultimately secured a $7.35 million settlement for the patient’s family and estate, providing compensation for her wrongful death and pre-morbid pain and suffering.