New York, NY personal injury attorney Michael Ronemus tells us about the hysterectomy malpractice case you handled. He recalls a particularly egregious case involving a woman in her mid-40s who suffered from diverticulitis. Despite medical management, her condition did not improve, and her physician recommended surgical intervention. The plan was to remove a portion of her intestine and create a temporary colostomy, which would later be reversed once her intestines healed.

At the time, the patient also experienced vaginal bleeding. The physician advised that, during the colostomy reversal, a hysterectomy could be performed concurrently to address the reproductive issues. Six months later, the combined procedure was carried out: her intestines were reconnected, and a hysterectomy was performed.

Following the surgery, the patient experienced unusual vaginal discharge. Initially, her concerns were dismissed as normal post-operative discharge. Upon returning home, she discovered, using a mirror, that she was actually defecating through her vagina. Further imaging, including a CAT scan, revealed a catastrophic surgical error: the intestines had been mistakenly attached to her vagina instead of being properly reconnected.

The physician acknowledged that the error occurred while a resident was performing the surgery. Over the course of approximately a year, multiple corrective operations were required to restore proper intestinal and anatomical function. The case is a striking example of medical negligence, with profound physical and emotional consequences for the patient.