Patient alleges too much bone shaved off in corrective hip surgery

GRETNA – A doctor who allegedly shaved too much bone off a patient’s hip is facing a medical malpractice lawsuit.

Sheila Jacobs filed suit against Dr. Luis M. Espinoza in the 24th Judicial District Court on Sept. 22.

Jacobs alleges that on Nov. 17, 2011 she underwent a surgical procedure conducted by Espinoza to shave off an excessive amount of bone on her right hip joint that was limiting her movement. The plaintiff contends that the defendant shaved too much bone off in the process and afterward failed to properly diagnose a fracture in the joint. Jacobs asserts that is was not until after she began physical therapy and the hip joint was very painful, popping and she was unable to bear weight on the leg that she underwent x-rays that showed the hip had been fractured. She claims she was required to undergo a total hip replacement.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain, mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, medical charges, prescription medication costs and medical expenses.

Jacobs is represented by M.H. Gentler of the New Orleans-based Gertler Law Firm LLP.

The case has been assigned to Division C Judge June Berry Darensburg.

Case no. 742-665.