Douglas Morguson v. DCH, et al. (Circuit Court of Tuscaloosa County, Alabama)
It was alleged that during open-heart surgery, the perfusionist (operator of the heart/lung machine) installed a tube backwards. As a result, an air bubble was allowed to flow into Mr. Morguson’s brain. Mr. Morguson died as a result. The case was settled pursuant to a confidentiality agreement.
Joann Smith as administratrix of the Estate of Michael Paul Smith v. Montclair Orthopedic Surgeons; Esaote; and Lunar Corporation, et al. (Circuit Court of Jefferson County, Alabama)
Michael Paul Smith presented to an orthopedic surgeon for a knot on his thigh. An MRI was performed on the thigh and Mr. Smith was told not to worry about it. Almost two (2) years later, the knot was diagnosed as a malignant tumor. Mr. Smith died as a result of the tumor. It was alleged that the physician failed to pursue a diagnosis of the knot. During trial, a confidential settlement agreement was reached with the product manufacturer and distributor. A jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff and against the physician’s practice.