Improper Application of CPAP to 43-year-old Female Worsens Underlying Esophageal Tear

Type of Injury: Worsening of underlying traumatic condition, namely, a proximal esophageal tear

Type of Case: Medical Malpractice

Settlement Amount: $200,000

On June 4, 2012, F-43 underwent a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with intra-operative endoscopy that was performed by defendant's physicians that was performed at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. During the course of the aforementioned procedure, the plaintiff suffered a proximal esophageal tear. This was a known risk of the procedure. Due to the esophageal tear, two days later, the plaintiff underwent a left neck exploration, washout, and closure of the wound that was performed by different physicians at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Despite orders to the contrary, the plaintiff was placed on a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which caused a worsening of her underlying traumatic condition, namely, the proximal esophageal tear.

The above summary is specific to a particular case and is not intended as a projected outcome on any other matter.