Paraplegia Victim Awarded $19.2 Million in NY Medical Malpractice Case

A man was awarded $19.2 million in a paraplegia medical malpractice case against Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, New York.

According to the lawsuit filed in Bronx Supreme Court (12th Judicial District), Willfredo Figueroa became paralyzed from the waist down after doctors to failed to diagnose and treat a spinal abscess in a timely manner.  Due to a delayed diagnosis, Figueroa suffered a compressive injury, damaging nerve cells in his spinal cord.

Figueroa's attorney, James Wilkens of Duffy & Duffy, proved that the hospital failed to conduct and examine appropriate tests, such as a CT scan and an MRI, even though there were progress notes that indicated Figueroa might have spinal injuries. Wilkens also claimed the hospital failed to notify a neurosurgeon and other experts about Figueroa's condition. Furthermore, Wilkens argued that even though Figueroa first came to the hospital on September 22, 2004, the appropriate tests were not administered until October 4, 2004.

Damages were awarded for Figueroa's medical needs, lost earnings, future loss of wages, pain and suffering, and decreased quality of life.

"An award of this magnitude is certainly necessary to compensate him for the losses, costs, and other burdens our client and his loved ones are forced to endure the rest of their lives," said Wilkens.

For more information about delay of diagnosis claims, click here to find a medical malpractice lawyer near you.