Ochsner sued by woman who claims equipment was not sterilized before procedure

GRETNA – A woman who underwent a medical procedure at a local hospital is suing claiming the equipment used in the procedure was not sterilized and thus unsafe.

Tiffany Orlando McNeil, and husband Christopher, filed suit against Ochsner Clinic Foundation in the 24th Judicial District Court on June 3.

McNeil claims that on Nov. 4, 2010 Dr. Ricardo Romero performed an endoscopy on her to examine her intestines due to complaints of abdominal pain. The plaintiff alleges that during the procedure she was exposed to unsterilized equipment and that she received a call from her primary care physician notifying her that the instruments were not properly cleaned and that she should undergo screenings for infectious diseases. McNeil asserts that on April 20, 2011 she was notified by Ochsner that the equipment was not properly cleaned, sanitized, disinfected or sterilized. After undergoing testing for hepatitis and HIV the plaintiff claims she received results showing she tested negative for all infections. McNeil alleges she is still afraid that she may contract an infectious disease and pass it on to her husband due to the incident.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for injury, medical expenses, mental anguish, fear, emotional distress and loss of consortium.

McNeil is represented by David A. Abramson of New Orleans-based Lewis, Kullman, Sterbcow & Abramson.

The case has been assigned to Division K Judge Ellen Shirer Kovach.

Case no. 727-558.