Family of man who allegedly died after dentures became lodged in throat during surgery sues

GRETNA – The family of a man who allegedly suffered oxygen deprivation and a stroke that led to his death after his dentures became lodged in his throat during a medical procedure is suing.

Nahid Kased, wife of decedent Mahmud Kased, Nabil Kased, Naheed Kased and Buthana Kased, children of Mahmud Kased, filed suit against Ochsner Medical Center Kenner LLC, Susheela-Viswanathan M.D. and Georgia Klingman in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 9.

The Kaseds allege that on Jan. 30, 2009 Mahmud Kased was admitted to Ochsner with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and constipation for which he was diagnosed with a ventral hernia and small bowel obstruction and ordered to undergo surgery. The plaintiffs asserts on Jan. 31, Mahmud Kased was given medical clearance for surgery that was undertaken on Feb. 2. The anesthesiologist’s report allegedly does not make mention that   Mahmud Kased was wearing dentures when he underwent anesthesia prior to surgery. However, two days following the successful surgery the plaintiffs claim Mahmud Kased was unresponsive and he was diagnosed as having had a stroke.

Following the stroke diagnosis a nurse noticed that he had problems breathing and located dentures that were lodged in his throat, which allegedly had interfered with his breathing and led to the stroke. In March 2010 Mahmud Kased died allegedly due to kidney failure and other complications related to the stroke.

The defendants are accused of wrongful death and medical malpractice.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for wrongful death, pain and suffering, medical expenses and attorney’s fees.

is represented by Mark W. Smith of Metairie-based Mark W. Smith & Associates.

The case has been assigned to Division H Judge Glenn B. Ansardi.

Case no. 737-284.