Doctor sued over complications that allegedly resulted from tonsillectomy

GRETNA – The family of a local girl who allegedly experienced severe complications after a routine surgery is suing the doctor who was in charge of the operation.

Kristin O’Neill and Jason Foor, on behalf of their minor daughter, filed suit against Thomas Irwin M.D. in the 24th Judicial District Court on Dec. 30.

O’Neill and Foor allege that on June 11, 2010 their daughter underwent a routine surgery to remove her adenoides and tonsils and that 10 hours later, after being discharged, she began to experience post-operative bleeding and was admitted to West Jefferson Medical Center where an emergency tracheotomy had to be performed and her stomach was suctioned of old blood. The plaintiffs allege their daughter was later transferred to the intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital New Orleans where she was an inpatient for 13 days.

The defendant is accused of deviating from the acceptable standard of care, mismanaging medical care, failing to timely diagnose a post-operative bleed and premature discharge.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, medical expenses, permanent disability, miscellaneous expenses and loss of enjoyment of life.

O’Neill and Jason Foor are represented by T. Carey Wicker III of New Orleans-based Capitelli & Wicker.

The case has been assigned to Division M Judge Henry G. Sullivan Jr.

Case no. 734-233.