Pain clinic sued after woman has stroke and leg amputation

GRETNA –A patient who had allegedly had a stroke and had to undergo a leg amputation is suing a pain clinic where she earlier underwent treatment.

Josephine H. Benz filed suit against Parish Pain Specialists in the 24th Judicial District Court on Sept. 27.

Benz alleges that in on Sept. 11, 2008 she had a stent placed in her right leg and was starting a drug regimen that was supposed to last for a year afterward to prevent complications from the procedure. The plaintiff asserts that seven days before she was to be evaluated at Parish Pain Specialists she was instructed by Dr. Kevin Martinez to discontinue the drug regimen in preparation for an injection. Benz alleges that following the procedure she was not ordered to continue the drug regimen and subsequently she had a stroke and was transported to East Jefferson General Hospital where her leg had to be amputated and multiple other complications had to be treated. The plaintiff asserts that she has had to undergo extensive rehabilitation following the emergency situation.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for mental anguish, physical pain and suffering and medical costs.

Benz is represented by Todd R. Slack of New Orleans-based Huber, Slack, Houghtaling, Pandit & Thomas LLP.

The case has been assigned to Division F Judge Michael P. Mentz.

Case no. 731-508.