Ochsner Clinic Foundation sued after man allegedly dies due to misdiagnosis for heart condition

GRETNA – The family of a man who died from a heart attack after allegedly being misdiagnosed at a local hospital is suing.

Stephanie Loerwald, Jason Loerwald and Jared Loerwald, individually and on behalf of the estate of Kenneth E. Loerwald, filed suit against Ochsner Clinic Foundation in the 24th Judicial District Court on Dec. 2.

The Loerwalds allege that on July 24, 2011 their 55-year-old patriarch, Kenneth Loerwald, was transferred to the emergency room at Ochsner. Prior to the emergency room visit the plaintiffs contend Kenneth Loerwald had suffered from a history of hypertension and Hepatitis C and for three days prior had muscle aches and pains along with stomach pain and cramping that had been diagnosed as the flu. However, the Loerwalds assert Kenneth Loerwald’s lab studies suggested he was actually suffering from kidney failure, congestive heart failure, liver dysfunction and dehydration, but that the care team focused on his gallbladder and ignored signs that he was experiencing heart problems.

The plaintiffs claim Kenneth Loerwald underwent gallbladder surgery during which he suffered a major heart attack and died.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice and wrongful death.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for conscious pain and suffering, medical expenses, funeral expenses, burial expenses, grief and mourning, loss of society and loss of chance of survival.

The Loerwalds are representing themselves in the case pro se.

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

Case no. 744-773.