Many Louisiana residents can understand the feelings of fear and anxiety that arise when they are handed a cancer diagnosis. Most people in this position likely worry about how the illness will affect their lifestyle in the future and even whether they will have much longer to live. A man in another state not only had to endure such thoughts but also underwent surgery to treat the problem, only to discover he was a victim of misdiagnosis. He and his wife were recently awarded $12.25 million in a medical malpractice suit.
The incident happened at a medical clinic where a pathologist mixed up two patients’ tissue samples, leading to an incorrect diagnosis. Believing he had cancer, the 67-year-old man underwent surgery to have his prostate removed. A different pathologist examined the gland after it was removed and found it to be free of cancer. Once the mistake was discovered, the patient who actually had cancer was informed, but by that time, unfortunately, his treatment had been delayed for at least four months.
Since the surgery, the patient has suffered incontinence and impotence. During the trial, the patient and his wife testified as to how the surgery has changed their lives. The couple said they had enjoyed an active love life prior to the surgery. As well, they explained the humiliation leading from his incontinence issues. Although the clinic did not dispute the fact that the patient endured unnecessary surgery, according to the patient’s wife, they have not offered an apology.
This man may have had many years ahead of him to enjoy life without these debilitating health issues, but sadly, a misdiagnosis has prevented that possibility. As this couple has done, victims of medical malpractice in the state of Louisiana may consider consulting with an attorney skilled in this area of law. Of course, a mistake cannot be reversed, but victims may be entitled to financial compensation.