This case takes place in South Carolina and involves a plaintiff who was diagnosed with a stroke and transferred to hospital, where she was treated by a hospitalist. She was placed in the ICU and given Xarelto. However, over the next few days, her level of awareness deteriorated. The hospitalist had a neurosurgeon evaluate her and, based upon the MRI’s, her brain had shifted and appeared to be herniated. They rushed her to the OR where surgery was performed to reduce the swelling. She is now incapacitated. It is alleged that had surgery been performed earlier and had she been referred to a neurologist she would have had a better outcome.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Do you have extensive experience treating patients who have suffered from a stroke?
2. How soon should patient be treated and monitored after stroke has occurred?
3. Have you ever reviewed a similar case? Please explain.
Expert Witness Response E-009816
Yes I have managed plenty of patients with stroke, this sounds like malignant MCA syndrome. Well monitoring should take place right away , we have what we call "hemicraniotomy watch" where we keep close eye in icu on candidates, usually younger patients (less atrophy and thus less room for brain to swell) and big stroke. arguments are about when to intervene.. I cannot recall a case exactly like this one off top of my head
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Joseph O'Neill
Joe has extensive experience in online journalism and technical writing across a range of legal topics, including personal injury, meidcal malpractice, mass torts, consumer litigation, commercial litigation, and more. Joe spent close to six years working at Expert Institute, finishing up his role here as Director of Marketing. He has considerable knowledge across an array of legal topics pertaining to expert witnesses. Currently, Joe servces as Owner and Demand Generation Consultant at LightSail Consulting.
