Podiatrist sued over post-operative complications

GRETNA – A local podiatrist is being sued by a patient who claims he suffered severe post-operative complications.

Dean Kirkfield filed suit against Maria Markiewicz DPM in the 24th Judicial District Court on Nov. 26.

Kirkfield alleges he was diagnosed as having a lesion under one of his foot bones for which he was treated with phenol, carac and cantharone, all of which are purportedly caustic to tissue, over a course of seven weekly treatments. The plaintiff claims that after being treated he immediately developed a blister that was drained, but later turned into an ulcer that necessitated oral antibiotics and skin grafts all of which failed to correct the problem. Kirkfield asserts he then went to Touro Infirmary for further treatment and had to undergo corrective surgery.

The defendant is accused of treating the plaintiff to multiple highly caustic agents, inserting pain pump around the surgical site that would create extra pressure on the soft tissue, failing to obtain proper informed consent, failing to properly evaluate plaintiff’s condition and performing surgery on a foot that was traumatized by chemicals.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, pain and suffering, mental anguish, economic loss, diminution of earning capacity, disability, scarring, deformity and loss of enjoyment of life.

Kirkfield is represented by Thomas B. Calvert of Metairie-based Thomas B. Calvert, A Professional Law Corporation.

The case has been assigned to Division A Judge Raymond S. Steib Jr.

Case no. 733-279.