Tracey Fox King & Walters is representing the patient
A woman from Cypress, Texas, is suing her doctor at Houston Methodist West Hospital for operating on the wrong foot and attempting to cover it up. The patient, Mary "Linda" Almanza, had surgery to repair painful bone spurs in her left foot in December 2021, but instead, her right foot was operated on. What's worse is that the doctor allegedly compelled Almanza's husband to initial a consent form after the surgery, making it seem like the procedure was performed on the correct foot.
This case is particularly concerning, not only because it involves medical malpractice but also because it highlights the issue of patient consent and how easily it can be manipulated. Patients trust their doctors to act in their best interest and make informed decisions about their care. Still, as this case shows, that trust can be shattered when doctors prioritize their own interests over their patients.
"We want to make sure they have the procedures in place so something like this doesn't happen to us or anyone else we care about," said Attorney Lance Walters, who is representing Almanza. "She was supposed to get her foot repaired, but now she has two bum feet."
The consequences of surgical errors
According to a study by John Hopkins Medicine, surgical errors are the third leading cause of death in the United States, following heart disease and cancer. Beyond the fatal outcomes, surgical errors can also cause serious physical, emotional, and financial harm to patients.
In the case of Almanza, the consequences of the surgical error have been life-changing. Almanza now struggles to walk and needs a cane or walker, even in her own home.
Sadly, Almanza's story is not unique. Surgical errors affect thousands of patients in the United States each year and can result in permanent disabilities, disfigurement, chronic pain, and emotional trauma. Patients who have suffered from surgical errors may require additional surgeries, extended hospital stays, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment, all of which can lead to financial hardship and ruin.
Given the prevalence and impact of surgical errors, hospitals and medical professionals must take steps to prevent them. This includes implementing better communication and coordination between surgical teams, improving training and education for medical staff, and implementing guidelines for verifying patient identities and surgical sites before procedures.
We hold negligent medical professionals accountable
A single mistake made by a doctor, surgeon, nurse, anesthesiologist, or another medical professional can have devastating consequences for a patient. Whether through recklessness or negligence, medical malpractice can leave patients and their loved ones grappling with physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
At Tracey Fox King & Walters, we are committed to advocating for those harmed by medical malpractice. Our experienced attorneys work tirelessly to build strong cases that hold medical professionals and facilities accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to medical malpractice, we offer a free consultation to help you seek justice and discuss your potential legal options. To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today. We have offices in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, TX.