Surgeon Error During Laparoscopic Surgery Goes Unnoticed

This case takes place in Wisconsin and involves complications stemming from a laparoscopic surgery. The plaintiff underwent a laparoscopic procedure, at which time the operating surgeon accidentally cut one of the patient’s major organs. Nevertheless, the surgeon failed to notice his error and the operation was completed. The operative report did no list any complications stemming from the procedure, and the patient was discharged. The plaintiff returned for additional care on several separate occasions during which time numerous tests were conducted and the surgeon’s error was discovered. The Plaintiff suffered numerous extended hospitalizations, and was permanently injured by the surgeon’s error.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Do you routinely perform this type of procedure? 2. Are you familiar with common complications from these surgeries and how to avoid them? 3. Have you served as an expert on a case involving complications from laparoscopic procedures? 4. Have you ever been the target of any malpractice claims?

Expert Witness Response E-015197

I am a fellowship-trained minimally invasive and bariatric surgeon who regularly does this type of surgery. I have published numerous papers on foregut surgery, including Nissen fundoplication and have co-authored a book chapter on endoscopic treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease. I routinely perform laparoscopic surgery and am familiar with common complications from these surgeries and how to avoid them. I have served as an expert in similar cases in the past. I have never been the target of a malpractice claim.