GRETNA – The grandmother of a man who died after a diagnostic procedure that allegedly perforated his colon and caused a pulmonary embolism is suing.
Emily Mae Dobard, on behalf of Terril Dobard, filed suit against Ochsner Clinic Foundation, Ochsner Medical Center Westbank, Dr. Rebekah Lemann, Dr. Travis Hill and Dr. Emery Minnard in the 24th Judicial District Court on June 1.
Dobard alleges she is the closest living relative to grandson Terril Dobard who died in the care of the defendants. The plaintiff contends that on March 4, 2012 Terril Dobard went to Ochsner Medical Center Westbank complaining of abdominal pain and digestive issues where he was diagnosed with a bowel obstruction and on March 7, 2012 was placed on an IV for hydration. Dobard asserts that Terril Dobard underwent a series of tests that identified a malignant tumor in his bowel and that during the procedures his bowel had been punctured. On March 8, 2012 Terril Dobard died from a pulmonary embolism the plaintiff claims was caused by the invasive testing and the puncture of his bowel.
The defendant is accused of medical malpractice.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for survival damages, wrongful death, severe injuries,
Dobard is represented by Patrick H. Hufft of New Orleans-based Hufft & Hufft APLC.
The case has been assigned to Division N Judge Stephen D. Enright Jr.
Case no. 750-236.