About 40 minutes into the surgery, the gynecologist noticed the patent’s leg moving slightly. He then used a nerve stimulator to produce additional movement. Vital signs remained stable. The anesthesiologist administered a paralyzing agent, and the patient’s heart rate decreased 5 minutes later. The patient then died, apparently due to an embolism.
Plaintiff’s claim (1) Inappropriate hormone therapy from the gynecologist caused the need for endometrial ablation. (2) A significant fibroid made her a poor candidate for endometrial ablation. (3) A more thorough workup, including chest radiograph, echocardiogram, pulmonary function test, and arterial blood gas analysis, should have been performed by the anesthesiologist before surgery.
Doctor’s defense (1) There was no negligence involved. (2) Additional tests would not have provided helpful information. (3) Additional tests would not have changed the clinical plan.
Verdict California defense verdict.