Patient sues surgeon over surgery that alleged resulted in deformed foot

GRETNA – A foot surgeon is being sued by a patient for allegedly causing her foot to become deformed after surgery.

Julie Pursell filed suit against Dr. Leon Shingledecker in the 24th Judicial District Court on July 31.

Pursell contends that on Jan. 21, 2011, Dr. Shingledecker performed a foot surgery on her that he deemed successful and released her from his care shortly thereafter.

However, the plaintiff claims the foot never properly healed and is now deformed. Pursell alleges she was unaware of the improper surgical procedure and follow-up care necessary.

The defendant is accused of failing to perform the foot surgery in accordance with standard medical procedures, failing to perform appropriate follow-up care, failing to address errors caused from the surgery, failing to properly assess patient’s condition and informing the patient that surgery was a success when it was not.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, anxiety, medical expenses, rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, deformity, loss of use of limb, disability and loss of enjoyment of life.

Pursell is represented by attorney Timothy R. Richardson of New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan Jr.

Case no. 740-857.