Settlement Reached in Complex Surgical Malpractice Case Involving Negligent Hernia Repair

The Porter Law Group recently secured a settlement in a significant medical malpractice case involving a negligently performed inguinal hernia repair that resulted in permanent nerve damage to the patient. The case highlighted serious deviations from the standard of care during both the surgical procedure and post-operative care.

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The case centered around a right inguinal hernia repair performed in June 2020, where the surgeon failed to follow established surgical protocols by incorrectly placing surgical mesh outside the inguinal canal rather than reinforcing the inguinal floor as required by standard medical practice. This deviation was particularly concerning given that the surgery was completed in just 29 minutes, despite the surgeon's own testimony that such procedures typically take 60 to 90 minutes to perform properly.

The client, a semi-retired law enforcement officer and dedicated public servant, began experiencing severe pain immediately following the surgery. Despite multiple follow-up visits over ten months, the surgeon failed to properly investigate the cause of the persistent pain or order any imaging studies that could have identified the problem. The surgeon's medical records indicated the client was "very pleased" with the results, a claim that was directly contradicted by the client's documented complaints of ongoing pain and subsequent medical history.

When the client finally sought a second opinion, the new surgeon discovered that the mesh had been improperly placed outside the inguinal canal, resulting in nerve entrapment. This finding was confirmed during corrective surgery in August 2022, where pathology reports verified the presence of entrapped nerves in the mesh. Despite the corrective procedure, the client continues to suffer from permanent nerve damage that significantly impacts his daily life.

The impact of this medical negligence has been profound. The client, who previously maintained an active lifestyle including volunteering as a firefighter and working as an instructor for the NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, now struggles with chronic pain that affects his ability to perform his professional duties and enjoy his personal activities. Simple tasks have become challenging, and activities he once enjoyed, such as hunting and snowshoeing, are now severely limited.

The case was strengthened by expert testimony from board-certified general surgeons who confirmed that the initial surgical technique deviated from the standard of care. The experts pointed to authoritative medical texts that clearly outlined the proper surgical approach, which the surgeon failed to follow. Additionally, the surgeon's own deposition testimony contradicted his operative notes, raising serious questions about the accuracy of his medical documentation.

The settlement reflects the significant damages suffered by both the client and his wife of 38 years, including substantial loss of household services valued at over $236,000, ongoing medical expenses, and profound impacts on their quality of life. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from surgical negligence and the importance of thorough post-operative care.

For individuals who have experienced similar complications following surgical procedures, it's crucial to seek both medical and legal consultation promptly. The Porter Law Group continues to advocate for patients who have suffered harm due to medical negligence, ensuring they receive the compensation and justice they deserve. If you or a loved one has experienced complications following surgery, contact the Porter Law Group to discuss your legal options and rights.