Florida is home to many skilled medical professionals, but unfortunately, surgical errors can happen, with devastating consequences. One such tragic case occurred recently when a Florida surgeon removed the wrong organ—leading to a fatal medical malpractice incident. Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky, a surgeon at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital in Walton County, mistakenly removed William Bryan’s liver instead of his spleen during a routine surgery. This mistake resulted in fatal blood loss, and now the Bryan family is seeking justice through a lawsuit. If you or a loved one has experienced similar medical malpractice, it is important to understand your rights and how medical malpractice attorneys in Florida can help.
Florida Surgeon Removes Wrong Organ in Fatal Medical Malpractice Case
In August, Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky performed a laparoscopic procedure on William Bryan at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital. Tragically, during the procedure, Shaknovsky mistakenly removed Bryan’s liver instead of his spleen. As a result, Bryan suffered fatal blood loss, leading to his death. What makes this case even more unsettling is the allegation that hospital staff attempted to cover up the error. The Bryan family claims that hospital officials, including the CEO and chief medical officer, falsified the death certificate and misrepresented the cause of death.
This is not the first time Dr. Shaknovsky has been involved in a surgical mistake. In fact, the surgeon had a history of errors, including a 2023 incident that was strikingly similar. Despite these previous warning signs, the Bryan family was pressured into going forward with the surgery. When an autopsy revealed the cause of death, Florida’s Surgeon General suspended Shaknovsky’s medical license, and he later voluntarily surrendered it.
Unfortunately, nothing can undo the harm caused by a negligent doctor. The civil justice system does provide a mechanism to seek compensation for the harm caused. In this case, that means filing a lawsuit for medical malpractice wrongful death.
Examples of Medical Malpractice Cases in Florida
Florida has unfortunately seen its fair share of medical malpractice cases that have left families devastated. Let’s take a closer look at a few examples of cases handled by seasoned medical malpractice attorneys in Miami.
The Case of a 6-Year-Old Girl with Asthma
In one of the most heart-wrenching cases, a 6-year-old girl with asthma was hospitalized for airway issues. Despite being treated by several doctors and nurses, her condition worsened, leading to severe symptoms, including labored breathing and confusion. Tragically, she suffered cardiac arrest, which resulted in a hypoxic brain injury. The girl was left with severe brain damage, likely permanent.
Thanks to the expertise of medical malpractice attorneys at Panter, Panter & Sampedro, the family received a $20 million settlement. The firm not only fought for compensation but also ensured that a special needs trust was set up for the girl’s lifelong care. This settlement will help cover her ongoing medical expenses and secure her future.
Knee Replacement Surgery Gone Wrong
In another tragic case, Matthew Standley underwent knee replacement surgery, only to suffer severe complications. Dr. Melvin Rech, the surgeon, misidentified Matthew as a candidate for the procedure and failed to take necessary precautions, such as administering antibiotics to prevent infection. As a result, Matthew developed an infection that ultimately led to the amputation of his leg.
Panter, Panter & Sampedro took on the case and, after 40 minutes of jury deliberation, secured an $11.9 million verdict for Matthew and his family. This case highlights the severe consequences of surgical errors and the importance of having experienced medical malpractice attorneys in Miami by your side.
Medical Malpractice Attorneys in Miami
When it comes to navigating the complex and emotional journey of a medical malpractice case, having the right legal team is essential. Medical malpractice cases are often long, challenging, and filled with legal complexities. For victims in Miami, the experienced medical malpractice attorneys at Panter, Panter & Sampedro have over 30 years of experience advocating for victims of medical negligence in South Florida.
Medical malpractice can take many forms, from surgical errors to misdiagnosis, anesthesia mistakes, and medication errors. The victims of these mistakes often suffer not only physical harm but emotional and financial hardship as well. In the aftermath of an injury or loss, families may be left with mounting medical bills, the loss of income, and the overwhelming grief of dealing with a preventable tragedy.
To win a medical malpractice case, it is essential to prove that the healthcare provider’s actions were negligent and directly caused harm to the victim. This often requires the testimony of expert witnesses and a thorough investigation of medical records. For victims in Florida, having an experienced medical malpractice attorney who understands the intricacies of the legal process is crucial.
At Panter, Panter & Sampedro we are committed to securing compensation for those who have suffered due to medical malpractice. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options. Whether you are dealing with a surgical error like the tragic case of William Bryan or any other form of medical negligence, their team is prepared to fight for justice on your behalf.
Sources:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/02/05/florida-surgeon-wrong-organ-lawsuit/
https://panterlaw.com/personal-injury/medical-malpractice/
https://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article299527584.html
