Jason C. Macfetters
GRETNA – A local hospital and medical professionals have been sued by a woman who claims she was subject to medical malpractice.
Kari Ricord filed suit against Ochsner Clkinic Foundation, George Morris, II, M.D. and the Louisiana Patient's Compensation Fund Oversight Board in the 24th Judicial District Court on Aug. 23. Ricord claims she was admitted to Ochsner for an exploratory laparoscopic procedure during which her colon was perforated. The plaintiff alleges the procedure was negligently performed and resulted in an infection and a subsequent surgery to repair the wound as well as complications including severe stomach pain and pneumonia. Ricord asserts that she has received permanent and scarring and disfigurement due to the procedures.
The defendant is accused of failing to use reasonable and diligent care in the surgical procedures, failing to perform the initial procedure correctly, failing to exercise diligence and skill in manipulating surgical instruments, failing to monitor a patient, negligently allowing an infection to manifest and advance, failing to insure proper recovery, failing to inform patient, failing to provide proper medication following surgery and failing to properly screen the patient prior to discharge following the initial procedure.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental and emotional pain and suffering, fear, lost wages, loss of consortium, loss of chance, scarring and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life and medical expenses.
Ricord is represented by Jason C. Macfetters of the New Orleans-based the Young Firm.
The case has been assigned to Division I Judge Nancy A. Miller.
Case no. 718-533.